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Wednesday, July 19, 2017

CLAC Stands up for Workers on Bill 148

Many positive wins for labour, but changes are required

Niagara Falls, ON – CLAC stood up for workers today during a presentation on the Ontario government’s labour law modernization bill to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs.

CLAC supported many of the changes proposed in Bill 148 and advocated for several amendments to address items that remain outstanding.

“There are many things in Bill 148 that will make a considerable difference in the lives of our members and workers across Ontario,” says Ian DeWaard, CLAC Cambridge regional director. “We have participated in the process to modernize Ontario’s labour laws from the beginning and are pleased to see so many of our suggestions included in the proposed legislation.”

CLAC’s recommendations to the government are aligned with Bill 148 in many places, including the additional minimum standards and better leave entitlements. The union also applauded changes to the Labour Relations Act that will help employees better exercise their right to be represented by the union of their choosing. 

Other items of particular interest for CLAC are the improved Employment Standards Act enforcement tools, the extension of union succession rights to some vulnerable workplaces, and the introduction of just cause protection for workers during a workplace transition or strike/lockout. 

CLAC’s suggested amendments highlighted vacation pay issues that will impact the construction sector. The union also called for increased protections for workers in times of transition between unions, expanded just cause protection for workers during a workplace transition or strike/lockout, and for the will of workers to carry the most weight when decisions are made regarding the consolidation of bargaining units. CLAC also provided a written submission to the standing committee summarizing its commendations and proposed amendments. 

In August, the all-party standing committee will meet to consider all of the proposed amendments. 

You can read CLAC's full submission at the bottom of this page.

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