The United Steelworkers union celebrates historic victory as anti-scab legislation receives Royal Assent
June 20 2024 - 8:02PM
The United Steelworkers union (USW) is celebrating today a historic
victory for workers across Canada, as the anti-scab legislation
passed the final stage of the legislative process in the Parliament
of Canada, receiving Royal Assent. This milestone marks the
culmination of decades of relentless struggle by the Steelworkers,
alongside the broader labour movement, the NDP and the Bloc
Québécois.
"The Steelworkers and the entire labour movement have fought for
decades to make this legislation a reality," said Marty Warren, USW
National Director. "This is a historic day and, above all, a major
achievement in the fight for the rights of federally regulated
workers, who will now be protected during labour disputes."
The newly adopted legislation, which will come into force on
June 20, 2025, will ban the use of replacement workers during
labour disputes, and thereby restore greater balance to collective
bargaining. It will not only facilitate the negotiation of better
working conditions, but also reduce the number and duration of
labour disputes.
"This victory would not have been possible without the ongoing
work with our parliamentary allies, who have consistently supported
us in this fight and are committed to advancing workers’ rights,"
added Warren. The inclusion of this measure by the NDP in the
Supply and Confidence Agreement with the government was also
critical to the success of this legislation.
The USW also expresses its appreciation to those who remained
dedicated to this fight. This victory shows the power of collective
action and solidarity and reaffirms the union’s commitment to
advancing the rights and well-being of workers across Canada.
About the United Steelworkers union
The USW represents 225,000 members in nearly every economic
sector across Canada and is the largest private-sector union in
North America, with 850,000 members in Canada, the United States
and the Caribbean.
Each year, thousands of workers choose to join the USW because
of the union’s strong track record in creating healthier, safer and
more respectful workplaces and negotiating better working
conditions and fairer compensation – including good wages, benefits
and pensions.
For more information, please contact:François
Soucy, USW Communications, fsoucy@usw.ca, 873-355-2841