Bill C-415 (Historical)

An Act to amend the Canada Labour Code (replacement workers)

Canada Labour Code

[Mario Silva, Liberal, Davenport, ON]

moved for leave to introduce Bill C-415, An Act to amend the Canada Labour Code (replacement workers).

Mr. Speaker, after months of consultation with labour groups, I am pleased to stand today to introduce my private member's bill, an act to amend the Canada Labour Code. The purpose of my bill is to ban replacement workers.

My bill would prevent federally regulated employers from employing replacement workers during strikes and lockouts.

Furthermore, my bill would ensure clarity and protect essential services for Canadians during labour disruptions because, in many instances, the nature of the services provided by federally regulated workers are essential to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

It is our responsibility to protect the interests of all Canadians and it is important to have the words “essential services” in any bill banning replacement workers.

I have been, and will continue to be, a strong advocate for Canadian workers and their rights. I encourage all members to support the bill.

As members of the House and my constituency know, from my time as a Toronto city councillor I have worked tirelessly for a fair wage policy. During my time in Ottawa, I have demonstrated my belief that elected officials have an--

(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)

[The Speaker, Peter Milliken]

I remind hon. members that the purpose of allowing members to make a statement is to give a brief explanation as to the purpose of the bill.

[Gerry Byrne, Liberal, Humber—St. Barbe—Baie Verte, NL]

He did that.

[The Speaker, Peter Milliken]

Yes he did and then I cut him off because he was going on a little long.

The brief summary is the important thing. We are always glad to hear that, but we do not need to have a second reading speech at first reading. It is not permitted.