Unions raise concerns over possible changes to federal labour laws in Canada

Several Canadian unions are raising concerns over potential changes to federal labour laws being considered by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government, warning the move could limit workers’ right to strike.

According to reports, the federal government circulated a discussion paper on April 17 seeking feedback from selected stakeholders, including representatives from the airline, port, railway, telecommunications and banking sectors.

Union groups say they are concerned the government could expand the number of workplaces classified as “essential services,” a designation that can restrict strike activity and affect the collective bargaining process. However, the federal government has not confirmed any specific legislative changes at this stage.

Reports also indicate that written submissions were limited to organizations invited directly by the government, prompting some labour groups to question the transparency of the consultation process.

The issue comes after previous federal interventions in labour disputes involving major employers such as Air Canada and Canada Post, where governments ordered workers back on the job during strike actions.

It remains unclear what measures, if any, the government plans to introduce or when legislation could be tabled.