The Minister of Labour, the honourable Filomena Tassi issued a statement this afternoon on the Port of Montreal work Stoppage.
The Government of Canada is firmly committed to free collective bargaining as the basis for sound labour relations. We also recognize the important role that unions play in standing up for hard working Canadians. However, when there is no indication the parties will be able to reach a negotiated agreement, all other efforts have been exhausted, and a work stoppage is causing significant economic harm to Canadians – the Government must act.
Regrettably, the Government must now pursue its least desired course of action. Bill C-29, introduced today, would end the work stoppage at the Port of Montreal and ensure the safe resumption and continuation of operations at the Port. Additionally, the bill would establish a neutral mediation-arbitration process to resolve the issues in dispute between the parties and conclude a new collective agreement. The Government is not taking sides. Both parties would have opportunities to present their positions to an impartial mediator-arbitrator charged with resolving all matters in dispute.
This is an excerpt from the 27 April 2021 statement.