On April 17, 2026, the federal government announced the launch of consultations intended to gather feedback on ways to improve labour relations in the federal sector. The window to provide submissions is short, with feedback due by May 25, 2026.
The information gathered will inform what are expected to be significant changes to the Canada Labour Code (“Code”), with specific proposed amendments including:
- amended timelines for collective bargaining and the dispute resolution process;
- introducing expedited arbitration provisions; and
- reviewing section 107 of the Code.
Scope and Process
The consultations are open to all stakeholders in federally regulated industries and it is expected that major unions operating in the federal sector will make extensive submissions.
