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ARTICLE · 26 OCTOBER 2026

Bill C-39: A New Framework For Federal Collective Labour Relations

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Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act, proposes significant amendments to the Canada Labour Code that will reshape collective bargaining timelines, ministerial intervention powers, and union certification processes for federally regulated employers. The legislation introduces new conditions for government intervention in labour disputes, accelerates bargaining deadlines for certain collective agreements, and expands obligations for airport service providers.

CanadaEmployment and HR
Andréanne Brosseau
Andréanne Brosseau
Catherine Biron
Catherine Biron
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Bill C-39, introduced on September 21 as the Building Canada Strong Act, proposes several amendments to the Canada Labour Code (the “Code”). Most affect Part I, which governs unionized workplaces. Federally regulated employers with unionized employees should prepare for these changes.

Key measures proposed include earlier bargaining for certain collective agreements, a longer conciliation period, and new conditions for ministerial intervention in labour disputes. These changes could affect how employers and unions prepare for bargaining and how their disputes are resolved.

The measures are not yet in force and may change as the Bill moves through Parliament. If enacted as introduced, most amendments to Part I of the Code would take effect upon royal assent, subject to certain transitional provisions.

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