CRFA opposes union-friendly legislation in Nova Scotia

(Sep. 30/11) First Contract Arbitration (FCA) is on the table in Nova Scotia. CRFA is concerned because FCA unfairly tips the balance of power toward unions, during both an organization drive and contract negotiations. As a result, CRFA is mobilizing the business community against its introduction.

Why FCA? Why now?
Nova Scotia businesses are still haunted by last year’s passage of the union-friendly Bill 100, Labour Board Act – which led to a committee of unionized representatives set up to advise the Minister of Labour Marilyn More.

In early September, Minister More sought the committee’s recommendations for introducing FCA – an odd direction, given the poor economic conditions and generally harmonious labour relations in the province. (Nova Scotia experiences fewer lost days due to strikes than most provinces and already has legislation to deal with unfair labour practices.)

The use of the committee and sudden proposal for FCA make it clear that Bill 100 was the first step in a calculated, long-term plan to rewrite the ground rules for employer/employee relations in the province.

The problems with FCA
CRFA opposes FCA as it favours organized labour, but does not solve outstanding issues or stimulate economic activity. In fact, most employers would view this type of legislation as unfriendly to business, pushing them to invest elsewhere.

With FCA, employers who hire about non-union employees (about 85 per cent of the province’s workforce) risk having third-party government officials impose the wages, terms and working conditions for employees in their business.

The proposed changes benefit unions in the following ways:

CRFA action
CRFA contacted both opposition parties and gained their support against this legislation. CRFA has also been active in the media and continues to build business community allies.

Click here to read CRFA’s letter to Minister Marilyn More.