Ms. Davies, we can predict some emergency situations, but only in a limited way. Pursuant to section 87.4 of the Canada Labour Code, the employer, the union and the employees in the bargaining unit are obliged to maintain certain activities to prevent imminent and serious threats to public safety or health.
If a national strike breaks out, if banks are paralyzed, this threatens not only the health and safety of some individual, but it paralyzes the entire economy.
As the Minister of Labour, I am responsible for trying to ensure that the parties in a labour dispute can work things out through negotiation. This is why we have created mechanisms for conciliation, arbitration and so forth.
Bill C-257 introduces new measures. Some activities that are under federal jurisdiction are essential for the Canadian economy. Transportation, communications, airports and ports affect every region of the country. If any part of these major services goes on strike and the employer cannot use replacement workers, the entire country could be paralyzed.
We must not give too much power to either party. If you give one party the power to paralyze everything, this could have enormous consequences. This is why it is important to try to keep a balance.