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.
Insights
FTR Now
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.
FTR Now
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.
FTR Now
The current tariff disputes triggered by the U.S. administration have left many understandably dazed and confused. However, amid these increasingly turbulent tariff disputes, some perspective can be gained by considering the actions of the participants through basic negotiation theory.
FTR Now
Whether the current tariffs remain in place or not, understanding them and considering how to effectively navigate them will leave employers better prepared in the face of uncertainty.
FTR Now
While the threat of tariffs on Canadian goods and products has been temporarily paused, the potential for a tariff war in the near future has caused considerable uncertainty for many Canadian workplaces.
Case In Point
In a significant ruling for employers in safety-sensitive industries, the Federal Court of Appeal has upheld the constitutional validity of mandatory pre-placement and random alcohol and drug testing requirements for safety-critical positions at Class I nuclear facilities. The decision in Power Workers’ Union et al v Attorney General of Canada, Ontario Power Generation, Bruce Power,…