Bank of Canada security guard strike hits 100-day milestone

The strike by security guards at the Bank of Canada has now surpassed the 100-day mark, with no resolution in sight. The workers, represented by the Public Service Alliance of Canada, have been on strike since early summer, demonstrating their resolve and determination. Alex Silas, the national vice-president of the union, highlighted the workers' commitment, stating, "They understand what they're fighting for and why what they're fighting for matters."

Negotiations remain stalled, particularly over a proposal by the Bank of Canada that would reduce overtime opportunities and lower the threshold for staffing numbers when a security guard cannot make a shift. This summer, the Canada Industrial Relations Board ruled that the Bank of Canada violated the Canada Labour Code by using replacement workers during the strike. While the strike in Montreal ended on Sept. 29 after a tentative agreement was reached with seven security guards, the main location in Ottawa continues to face a deadlock in negotiations.

The strike is part of a broader wave of labour actions and legislative changes affecting Canada's public service. Other notable developments include Canada Post's intention to outsource its pension centre, potentially impacting around 20 workers, and the federal government's $800,000 investment in Ottawa-based defence technology company H2 Analytics. Additionally, scientists within the federal government have raised concerns that new legislation aimed at speeding up approvals for major projects could compromise evidence-based decision-making.