While the provincial government dithers over introducing anti-scab legislation, a Conservative-led federal goverment is forging ahead, beating Saskatchewan's "labour-friendly" government to the punch.

Yesterday Bill C-257 passed second reading in the House of Commons.  The Bill will amend the Canada Labour Code to ban the use of replacement workers, or scabs, during strikes and lockouts.  “We are very pleased that our elected Members of Parliament took this important step for workers in the federal sector.  Anti-scab legislation builds healthier labour relations in important sectors of our economy, including our borders, transportation, communication, trade, and the administration of government services, “ said Larry Hubich, president of the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour.

Workers are still waiting for a Sask anti-scab law.
Photo by Chris Banting.

MPs voted in favour by a margin of 167 to 101 late yesterday.

“We now call on the government of Saskatchewan to follow the lead of its federal counterparts on this issue. The benefits of anti-scab legislation should be extended to all workers and employers in Saskatchewan,“ said Hubich.

Comments

Private Citizen's Bill Written by Citizen Wilson on 2006-10-26 15:19:32 Can a private citizen table a bill to amend Consumer Protection laws to force customers not to shop at another store while their regular store is shut down due to strike action?    May as well table another one to have the Maple Leaf replaced with the Hammer and Sickel while we are at it.    Perhaps a third motion that would open Unions to competition for members?

Comrade Stephen Written by pelliott on 2006-10-26 15:32:53 Wow, never heard Stephen Harper being accused of waving the hammer and sickle before. Perhaps the revolution is closer than we think.

Close.... Written by Citizen Wilson on 2006-10-26 15:43:01 ...as in Civic Elections?    There is still third reading, Senate, and Royal ascent to go before it becomes law.

No credit to federal Conservatives Written by Marti on 2006-10-26 16:18:38 Trish, You are too quick to credit Harper and company for the anti-scab legislation that passed second reading yesterday. It did so thanks mainly to the NDP and Bloc. It is true, however, that a few Conservatives, emboldened by a labour lobby, voted for the bill.

Right you are Written by pelliott on 2006-10-27 08:17:28 Thanks Marti - You're probably right. Still, the irony is delicious.

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