An October vote in the House of Commons could see a ban on scabs in federally-regulated workplaces.
Private members’ bills that would make it illegal for employers to hire workers to replace striking union members will come to a vote in October, beginning with Bill C-257.
Recent sessions of Parliament have seen two private members’ bills to outlaw the use of scabs, Bills C-328 (2002) and C-263 (2005).
Bill C-263 was defeated by only 12 votes.
The Liberals were split. Enough voted with the Conservatives to outvote the coalition of Bloc Québecois, NDP and fair minded Liberals. But only barely.
With the current volatile minority government, the balance could easily swing. But only if MPs hear from their constituents about why we need a federal anti-scab law.
Please write to your MP. The CLC’s online action provides an easy form to look up and write your MP but be sure to write your own message. Your MP’s staff will ignore your message if it seems like a form letter.
Also - pass this message on. Send your friends an e-card to encourage them to push their MPs.