Government of Canada acts to protect public health and safety during Port of Montréal lockout: Refers maintenance of activities issue between union and employer to Canada Industrial Relations Board
Untitled Document
OTTAWA, ONTARIO, July 21, 2010-The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada's Minister of
Labour, has referred the issue of the maintenance of activities in the Port of
Montréal during the current lockout to the Canadian Industrial Relations
Board (CIRB). This action was taken in part in response to concerns raised regarding
the supply of goods to Newfoundland and Labrador.
"The Government's priority is to protect Canadians; I have asked the Board
to examine the issue of maintenance of activities at the Port of Montréal,"
said Minister Raitt. "We must ensure that the health and safety of the
public are not jeopardized."
During a work stoppage, section 87.4 of the Canada Labour Code requires unions
and employers to continue to provide services that are necessary, in order to
prevent an immediate and serious danger to the safety or health of the public.
In this case, the parties have not reached their own "maintenance of activities"
agreement.
Under the Canada Labour Code, the CIRB, upon referral by the Minister during
a labour dispute, may issue binding orders with respect to the maintenance of
activities to ensure that a work stoppage does not threaten public safety or
health.
"The best solution in any dispute is the one the parties reach themselves.
I urge the parties to reach a negotiated agreement as soon as possible,"
added Minister Raitt.
The CIRB is an independent, representational, quasi-judicial tribunal. Its
mandate is to interpret and apply the provisions of Part I of the Canada Labour
Code dealing with collective bargaining and unfair labour practices.
For more information on the Board, please visit www.cirb-ccri.gc.ca.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Jocelyne Turner
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills
Development Canada
819-994-5559
