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ARTICLE · 07 OCTOBER 2026

Bill C-39 Proposes Significant Changes To Collective Bargaining In The Federal Sector

Littler - Canada
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The federal government has introduced Bill C-39, proposing sweeping reforms to the Canada Labour Code that would fundamentally alter how federally regulated employers approach collective bargaining...

CanadaEmployment and HR
Stephen Shore
Stephen Shore
Liam McMunagle
Liam McMunagle

At a Glance

  • Bill C-39 proposes significant amendments to the Canada Labour Code that would affect several aspects of labour relations for federally regulated employers.
  • The proposal expressly codifying the Minister of Labour’s ability to end a strike or lockout where it is found to be in the “national interest” to do so is sure to gain the most attention. 
  • Other proposed changes that may have significant impact on employers include those intended to support earlier and more structured bargaining, expand dispute resolution tools, and preserve bargaining relationships in certain third-party contractor situations.
  • Because the bill remains proposed legislation, federally regulated employers may wish to monitor its progress and consider how the amendments could affect bargaining strategy, labour relations planning, and collective agreement administration if enacted.

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