Federal anti-scab legislation introduced, Steelworkers pushing for stronger law

Long-awaited federal anti-scab legislation, introduced in Parliament on Nov. 9, marks another victory for workers stemming from the New Democrats’ supply and confidence agreement with the government.

“Steelworkers have been part of the fight for antiscab legislation for decades,” said USW National Director Marty Warren. “This bill is not perfect, but it’s a big step in the right direction and proves the work we’ve been doing is delivering results.”

Steelworkers are pushing the government to strengthen the new bill by eliminating loopholes that would allow scabs and to ensure quick passage and implementation of the legislation. The plan announced by the Liberals in November called for a lengthy, 18-month delay for the legislation to come into effect following Royal Assent.

“Our work is not over,” Warren said. “Now that the bill has been tabled, we’re not going to let up. We need changes to this legislation to scrap unnecessary delays in implementing it and to close big Liberal loopholes. Steelworkers should contact their MPs and call for these changes.”

usw.ca/antiscab

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