Well, essentially I have to concur with Ms. MacPherson. I have before me a copy of section 87.4 of the Canada Labour Code, and I do not see the words “essential services” referenced in the Canada Labour Code.
I think it becomes a question perhaps for the committee to decide as to whether or not that is a scope issue--whether or not this is really going beyond the scope of Bill C-257 by introducing the notion of an essential service.
Certainly the words that are used following the expression “essential services”, when it talks about “operating facilities or produce goods to the extent necessary to prevent an immediate and serious danger to the safety or health of the public”, are referenced essentially word for word in section 87.4. I think in subsection 87.4(1), which I have before me, they use the word “and”, “immediate and serious danger to the safety or health of the public”, and I think that's what we have in the amendment being put forward by Mr. Silva.
I don't know if that helps, Mr. Chairman.