Industry argues 'anti-scab' law a risk to networks

Group wants loophole for maintenance work during strikes to apply to carriers

- SAMMY HUDES

The industry representing Canadian telecommunications carriers and manufacturers is warning new "anti-scab" legislation could leave Canadians in the dark if a network goes down during a labour stoppage.

Bill C-58, which received royal assent last month, bans federally regulated workplaces from bringing in replacement workers during a legal strike.

It also amends the Canada Labour Code to mandate that certain agreements are signed between employers, unions and bargaining unit employees when a strike or lockout takes place. Known as "maintenance of activities" pacts, they require affected workers to maintain services necessary to prevent an "immediate and serious danger to the safety or health of the public."

The bill outlines the timeline for concluding such maintenance of activities agreements - which had previously been optional- and adjudicating any related disputes.

But Eric Smith, senior vice-president of the Canadian Telecommunications Association, said the ban may unintentionally leave telecom companies in the lurch when their workers go on strike.