McPherson has prepared legislation to amend the Canada Labour Code to prohibit employer-dominated “company unions” that undermine collective bargaining and weaken workplace standards.
“This is about protecting the fundamental right to organize freely,” said McPherson. “Company unions drive down wages, weaken benefits, and erode the trust that makes collective bargaining work. Company unions should not exist in Canada.”
The legislation empowers the Canada Industrial Relations Board to investigate and decertify employer-dominated organizations, allows workers to petition for representation reviews, and requires unions to confirm their independence upon certification.
“Workers deserve to know that the people negotiating on their behalf are accountable only to them,” said McPherson.
The CLAC is the largest company union in Canada. Labour relations boards in Nova Scotia and British Columbia have both ruled against them and they have caused complaints right across the country. On the international front, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) suspended the CLAC for “undermining labour conditions of workers.” Despite all that, last year, the Liberal government awarded $18 million in public funds.
“Company unions don’t have the backs of workers, but the Liberal government clearly has the backs of company unions. That’s another reason we need this legislation,” said McPherson. “If the Liberals are serious about standing up for workers, they can prove it by supporting this move to get rid of - not fund - company unions.”
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