Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.
I quite agree with Ms. Davies that Mr. Vines, from the Canadian Industrial Relations Board, should have been invited next Tuesday rather than today. We're not concerned with exactly the same type of topic. I'm nevertheless going to ask him my questions. This is nice because you're listening to me.
Mr. Vines, I'm quite pleased that you've accepted the Chair's invitation. However, at a meeting that will be held next Tuesday, we'll be addressing more technical questions. You would in a way have been more at home at that meeting. Having said that, I'm nevertheless pleased to meet you and to ask you some questions.
As you yourself pointed out, subsection 87.4(1) of the current Canada Labour Code states: 87.4 (1) During a strike or lockout not prohibited by this Part, the employer, the trade union and the employees in the bargaining unit must continue the supply of services, operation of facilities or production of goods to the extent necessary to prevent an immediate and serious danger to the safety or health of the public.
The subject of this section, which appears in the left-hand margin, is described by the words “Maintenance of activities”. In your opinion, should it have stated maintenance of essential services?