In the past, CFIB has recommended that federally regulated workplaces that are instrumental to the supply chain be defined as essential service providers. It is a solution the majority of our members support.
At the Standing Senate Committee on Transport and Communications meeting two weeks ago, we also suggested that a detailed cost analysis study be required to evaluate the impact of a strike on SMEs and the economy before it is even allowed to happen. If the projected harm is too severe, a general strike should not be allowed. Businesses and the supply chain must be protected 100% of the time. Both back-to-work legislation and section 107 of the Canada Labour Code must be available to government to end costly work stoppages.
Moving forward, additional mechanisms are needed to keep these work stoppages from even starting. Our members cannot afford the ongoing costs and unpredictability that work stoppages inflict upon them.
Thank you very much.