Mr. Speaker, I would like to take part in the debate on Motion No. 2 regarding Bill C-66, and in particular on RCMP members' right to unionization and to collective bargaining.
I have, on a number of occasions, taken part in the debate and asked that the Canada Labour Code be amended in order to allow RCMP members to unionize, like any other federal public servants, and like any other police force in Canada. Members of these police forces have the right to unionize. Why deny members of the RCMP this legitimate right?
The International Labour Organization gives all wage earners without exception the right to unionize. But in Canada, a country espousing the principles of the ILO, a police force that is very important to the country is denied this right.
I think that labour relations at the RCMP would benefit from collective bargaining, discussion of working conditions by the parties, and a collective agreement. I think that there would be advantages to RCMP management and members alike. I am in favour of the RCMP's right to unionization and collective bargaining.