Union blasts comments by Quebec minister mulling law to intervene to end strikes

MONTREAL — Canada’s largest union is denouncing a statement by Quebec’s labour minister, who suggested he might try to bring in legislation to give the province more power to end labour disputes.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees is describing Jean Boulet as “the Grinch trying to steal the right to strike.”

Boulet told CBC/Radio-Canada that he’s mulling changing the province’s labour code to allow the government to suspend a strike or lockout and impose arbitration.

The legislation would be modeled on a similar law at the federal level that has been used to end strikes at Canada’s ports, railways and at Canada Post.

Boulet told the outlet he’s also considering expanding the province’s list of essential services, which could prevent workers in some sectors from striking. His office did not respond for a request for comment.

CUPE says the right to strike is protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and attempts to undermine it will be “inevitably” struck down in court.

“The right to strike is a fundamental right, a cornerstone of our democracy,” CUPE Quebec President Patrick Gloutney said in a news release. “Taking advantage of the holiday season to try to weaken it shows deep disdain for those who fight every day for fair working conditions.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 24, 2024.

The Canadian Press