Bank of Canada Defends Use of Replacement Workers Amid Strike

Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem defended the central bank's decision to use replacement workers during a strike by security officers in June. The Bank of Canada was required to comply with rulings from the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), which initially allowed for the use of replacement workers due to acknowledged threats to safety.

Macklem stated that the Bank made representations regarding minimum necessary arrangements to ensure the security of facilities and people in light of the strike, and complied with both CIRB rulings within the prescribed time period. He emphasized that exceptions to the rules allow for the use of replacement workers when necessary to prevent threats to life, health or safety, or to prevent serious damage to property.

The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) union called on the Bank of Canada to stop using replacement workers and return to the bargaining table to negotiate a fair deal. The PSAC president, Bea Bruske, urged the federal government to make it clear that no federally regulated employer is above the law.