The Quebec unions, CSQ and APTS, are demanding damages from the government for the law that allows intervention in labor disputes and imposes arbitration.
CSQ has taken the matter to the Superior Court, seeking exemplary and punitive damages for what they deem as an unlawful infringement on employees’ fundamental rights. APTS is also pursuing punitive damages, citing an intentional violation of freedom of association.
These unions are part of a group challenging the recent law aiming to prioritize the population’s needs during strikes or lockouts. The legislation, effective since November 30, is under scrutiny for potentially unconstitutional provisions, including broad discretionary powers granted to the Minister of Labour.
Critics argue that the law’s emphasis on preventing social, economic, and environmental disruptions during strikes may undermine workers’ rights. They claim that the law disproportionately favors employers and erodes the balance of power in labor negotiations.
The unions draw on a 2015 legal precedent that upheld the constitutional protection of the right to strike. They contend that the government’s actions violate this principle and international standards of freedom of association.
Minister of Labour, Jean Boulet, defends the law as necessary to safeguard the population’s well-being in critical situations. He assures that ministerial interventions would be rare and justified by the potential impact on vulnerable groups.
