Canada Proposes Labour Code Changes to Restrict Government Strike Intervention

New Legislation on Strike Powers

The Liberal government moved Monday to impose new conditions on a contentious part of the Canada Labour Code that's been used to quash high-profile labour disputes in recent years. Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu said the proposed changes will put a "higher bar" on Ottawa's ability to scuttle strikes, but labour leaders argue the legislation would instead roll back workers' rights. Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act, includes changes to streamline project approvals across the country and makes adjustments to the Canada Labour Code.

Section 107 and Labour Disputes

Many of the proposed changes revolve around Section 107 of the labour code — a contentious section that has been used by the government to scuttle strikes in a variety of sectors in recent years. The Canadian government has introduced legislation that would change how labour disputes are handled in federally regulated industries, including proposed changes to the Canada Labour Code that are intended to help unions and employers reach agreements sooner and reduce economic disruptions. Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act, has been tabled in the House of Commons, alongside measures to accelerate major project approvals, strengthen trade corridors and modernize ports.

If you work in a federally regulated sector—aviation, rail, telecommunications, banking, or interprovincial transport—these proposed changes could affect your bargaining environment and labour rights. The legislation is still in early parliamentary stages, so its final form remains uncertain. Stay informed through your union or employer about how these rules may reshape strike and lockout procedures in your industry.

Sources

• The Canadian Press / Lethbridge Herald — Proposed labour law changes put 'national interest' as condition to end strikes