Getting Organized
CLAC invites workers in all industries and occupations to join a dynamic Canadian union. Joining is entirely your decision and is easier than you think.
- First, contact one of our regional offices to arrange a confidential meeting with a CLAC representative. The representative will explain how provincial or federal labour laws apply to your workplace.
- Next, sign a membership application card. Signed cards are confidential—your employer will not be told who supports the union.
- When a majority have joined, CLAC will make application to the labour relations board so that we become certified to represent you.
- In some jurisdictions, the labour relations board will order a vote to confirm support for the applicant union. If the vote is successful, your workplace will become unionized.
- Once CLAC has been certified to represent you, negotiations for a first collective agreement can begin. We will meet with you and your fellow workers to draft contract proposals, elect a bargaining committee, and schedule negotiation dates with your employer.
Can my employer fire me?
Provincial and federal laws give employees the right to unionize without punishment or retaliation. If your employer tries to intimidate you in any way or terminates your employment, CLAC will bring the full weight of the law to bear—regardless of whether the unionization campaign is successful or not. You're protected the moment you sign a membership application card.
Your employer has very limited rights to communicate its views on a union organizing campaign. Most employers know and accept this—if not, we will certainly inform them! CLAC can and will protect you if your employer illegally punishes employees for supporting the union.
In the event of a negative response by your employer, it may be wise to keep a record of anything out of the ordinary during an organizing campaign. You should obtain copies of bulletins and take note of any intimidating conversations with management and report them to your CLAC representative. Threats of layoff, reduced hours, closure, or the dismissal of workers who talk union are illegal. CLAC-trained staff or legal counsel will be retained on behalf of anyone whose rights are violated.
Can my employer change my working conditions, cut the workforce, or take away my benefits and privileges?
No. The law forbids employers from making changes. A freeze period runs from the date of application for certification to a set date or until a first contract is reached. Changes can only be made with the permission of the labour relations board or the union during this freeze period.