This article considers recent Canada-U.S. trade developments through a collective bargaining lens, highlighting practical lessons for employers on deadline pressure, walkaways, credible alternatives and preserving bargaining relationships.
Business Operation: Canada
Federal Government Announces Counter-Tariffs and $7.5 Billion Support Package for Canadian Workers and Businesses
The federal government has announced approximately $27.6 billion in counter-tariffs and a $7.5 billion support package . This article outlines the measures announced to date and the practical considerations for employers evaluating workforce and business planning options.
Canada-U.S. Trade Talks Break Down: What Employers Should Watch For
Canada-U.S. trade talks have broken down, and the federal government has announced retaliatory tariffs expected to take effect on September 8. For employers in affected sectors the developments may raise important operational and workforce planning considerations.
Ontario Court Allows Retroactive Application of UCCMS to Historic Misconduct
The Ontario Superior Court of Justice has upheld an arbitrator’s decision finding that the UCCMS may, in certain circumstances, be applied retroactively to historical allegations of misconduct. This decision is an important reminder that safe sport obligations may extend to conduct that occurred before the UCCMS came into force.
Arbitrator Strikes Down TTC’s Random Drug and Alcohol Testing Program
A significant decision concerning workplace drug and alcohol testing, has found that the Toronto Transit Commission’s (TTC) random drug and alcohol testing program was unreasonable, contrary to the collective agreement and inconsistent with employees’ rights under section 8 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (Charter).
FIFA World Cup 2026™ – Labour and Employment Development Roundup
Two World Cup-related decisions offer practical reminders for employers: major sporting events may influence disputes, but they do not change the legal tests that apply.
Federal Replacement Worker Ban: First Reported Decision on the Merits
The Canada Industrial Relations Board has issued its first merits decision under the federal replacement worker ban, confirming that a violation depends on whether the individuals fall within the statutory prohibitions. In reviewing CUPE Local 4317 v. Montreal Gateway Terminals Partnership, Hicks Morley’s Simon Mortimer highlights the Board’s strict, provision-based approach under the updated framework.
Consultations on Potential Amendments to Canada Labour Code Launched
The federal government has launched consultations on potential amendments to the Canada Labour Code, with possible implications for collective bargaining, worker protections and other employer obligations in federally regulated workplaces. Our latest federal post highlights the key measures under consideration and the timeline for stakeholder input.
Highlights from the Federal Government’s 2026 Spring Economic Update
The federal government’s 2026 Spring Economic Update includes several proposals that may affect employers, HR professionals and pension plan administrators.
Use of French in Federally Regulated Private Businesses
On April 15, 2026, the Government of Canada announced that it had tabled draft regulations under the Use of French in Federally Regulated Private Businesses Act (Act). Although the draft regulations have not yet been publicly released, the Government published a Description of the Proposed Regulations, which forms the basis of this summary.