CRFA incites changes to union-friendly labour legislation

(Dec. 14/10) CRFA recently led the charge against changes to Nova Scotia’s labour legislation that could have upset the province’s delicate labour management balance – specifically Bill 100, Labour Board Act.

We took issue with several amendments buried in Bill 100 viewed as payback to public sector unions and introduced without any public consultation. CRFA action led to filibustering in the Legislature by both opposition parties for nearly two weeks and a wave of support from fellow business organizations. Due to these efforts, several key areas of the Bill were amended in discussions with government officials.

Provisions were changed to ensure successor rights would not be extended during the contracting out of government services. This could have meant private sector employers who contract out a service to government – such as the operation of a cafeteria or lease of a foodservice area in a public building – would be saddled with a public sector union. 

CRFA efforts also made certain a union-dominated Labour Management Review Committee instituted in Bill 100 would not be able to recommend changes to the Labour Standards Code or Minimum Wage Order. Provisions were also added to ensure the Minister consults with organizations such as CRFA on changes to labour statutes.