Bank of Canada Defends Use of Replacement Workers During Strike

Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem defended the central bank's use of replacement workers during a strike by security officers. The bank employed replacement workers to ensure facility and personnel security, citing exceptions in the Canada Labour Code for threats to life, health, or safety.

The Public Service Alliance of Canada union called on the Bank of Canada to stop using replacement workers and return to the bargaining table. The bank complied with a ruling from the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) but faced criticism for its initial use of replacement workers.

Canada passed legislation in 2024 banning federally regulated workplaces from hiring replacement workers during legal strikes, which took effect last year. The Bank of Canada's actions drew criticism from Bea Bruske, president of the Canadian Labour Congress, who urged the federal government to ensure compliance with labour laws.