The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour is pleased with the passage of Bill C-58
The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour is pleased with the passage of Bill C-58, a significant step forward for workers’ rights in Canada. This new law now protects unionized workers at the federal level from employers who attempt to hire replacement workers, often referred to as “scabs,” during legal strikes and lockouts. This is a significant win for the labour movement and an essential change to federal labour laws, made possible through the work of unions, members, and activists from across the country.
Starting June 20, employers subject to federal regulation cannot use replacement workers to take over the jobs of unionized employees during legally mandated work stoppages. If employers break this anti-scab law, they could be fined up to $100,000 each day. There are a few exceptions for serious safety, health, or property issues; however, even in these cases, employers must first offer work opportunities to the union members involved.
This victory does not mean the fight for fairness and justice for all workers is over. Now is the time for provinces like Nova Scotia to step up and create robust anti-scab laws, ensuring that the rights and protections afforded to federally regulated workers are also available to all workers, regardless of their workplace. Having different laws across provinces can leave many workers with weak or uneven protections. British Columbia and Quebec already have anti-scab laws, but there are still gaps that need to be addressed.
Provincial laws should prohibit the use of replacement workers, whether external or internal, such as managers or contracted workers, during any legal strike or lockout. It is essential to have provincial laws that align with federal protections to demonstrate respect for workers’ rights to bargain collectively and create fair workplaces. We are asking the Nova Scotia Government to take action now to align with this new federal standard and focus on the needs of working people.
