Canadian Employers Push for Preemptive Strike Limits in Key Sectors

Canadian employers are urging Prime Minister Mark Carney's government to grant the labor minister preemptive powers to limit strikes in critical sectors like airlines, railroads, and ports if they threaten the national public interest, a move unions strongly oppose. The government is preparing reforms to the federal labor code following recent disruptions, including a WestJet flight attendant strike that canceled hundreds of flights before a tentative deal was reached. Employers cite a "disturbing pattern" of work stoppages and want proactive tools like binding arbitration to prevent shutdowns before they start. Unions argue employers are exploiting trade tensions with the US to erode workers' rights, while both sides may support appointing a special mediator to facilitate agreements. The government has delayed legislation to allow more consultation over the summer.