Employer groups encouraged by Ottawa’s labour law changes, but some want bigger steps

OTTAWA - Employer groups are supportive of Canada's proposed labour law changes contained in Bill C-39, though some wish the Liberal government would take additional steps to ensure industrial peace. Unions argue the measures in the bill are an assault on workers' rights. Bill C-39, if passed, would streamline project approvals nationwide and alter the Canada Labour Code.

The amendments aim to furnish unions and employers with tools to reach agreements following contentious negotiations. Certain changes could grant the labour minister greater authority to terminate strikes impacting vital sectors of the economy. Most employer associations commenting on Bill C-39 this week have generally welcomed the proposals.

Derrick Hynes, CEO of the Federally Regulated Employers — Transportation and Communications, believes the legislation will stabilize collective bargaining and provide new mediation resources. The bill proposes a new special mediator position to mediate deadlocked parties and allows the government to intervene in federally regulated industries under Section 107.

Hynes praised the provisions for special mediation and the "national interest" test, but would have preferred the government to intervene before workers strike. The Liberals have marketed many of the proposed changes as vital to protecting Canada's economy against U.S. trade pressure and improving the country's global investment reputation.

Critics warn that these changes have not been tried in practice and may not be sufficient or ignored by unions determined to challenge the government's authority.