Bank of Canada's Use of Replacement Workers During Strike Sparks Controversy

The Bank of Canada is facing criticism for its use of replacement workers during a strike by security officers at the central bank.

According to a decision issued last week, the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) ruled that the Bank of Canada contravened the Canada Labour Code by using contractors from Pinkerton Consulting & Investigations and Garda Canada Security Corporation.

Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, defended the central bank's actions in a letter to the president of the Canadian Labour Congress, stating that the bank had complied with the CIRB's rulings within the prescribed time period.

Macklem argued that some 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.