B.C.’s Labour Relations Code is being updated.
B.C.’s existing Labour Relations Code underwent a comprehensive review process, resulting in amendments that were introduced on April 30, 2019 and enacted on May 30, 2019.
Beginning in February 2018, the Labour Relations Code Review Panel undertook a review of the Labour Relations Code to ensure British Columbia’s unionized workplaces are supported by fair laws for workers and businesses that are consistent with the rights and protections enjoyed by other Canadians.
The Labour Relations Code establishes the relationships between labour and management – how workers join unions, how employers and unions interact, and how collective bargaining disputes are resolved. The last full review of the Code took place in 1992.
The panel assessed issues from the perspective of promoting certainty as well as harmonious and stable labour/management relations. The panel approached the review in an independent, impartial and balanced manner.
The panel was made up of three people who were tasked with providing recommendations to government, by August 2018, on amending the Labour Relations Code to better support a growing and sustainable economy.
As part of the review, the panel engaged with – and sought input from – interested stakeholders from all regions of the province. Written submissions were accepted until March 20, 2018. The panel held public consultations in 9 communities around the province, and accepted submissions from participants wishing to provide additional information or respond to other submissions.
The panel’s report was delivered to government on August 31, 2018. Read government’s announcement and read the report with recommendations.
Further feedback on the panel’s report and recommendations was accepted until November 30, 2018.
After consideration of the panel’s report and all feedback, legislative amendments to the Labour Relations Code were introduced by Labour Minister Harry Bains on April 30, 2019 and are now in effect.