BCCA Response to Proposed Labour Code and Employment Standards Legislation

BCCA Website | May 1, 2019

The BCCA is a non-partisan association representing BC’s construction industry. We advocate for the competitive success of all employers, regardless of labour affiliation, and seek a fair and balanced approach from government in regard to decisions that greatly impact our industry.

We are pleased that Minister Bains accepted Labour Code recommendations provided by the Labour Relations Code Review Panel, particularly in regard to maintaining the secret ballot.   We also support the proposed updates to the Employment Standards Act, which seek to improve the safety of children and youth in all industries, and enhance protective supports for all workers.

We are concerned that the Minister has chosen to override the Panel’s recommendation to move the open period to every third year.  The negative impact on productivity in our sector is likely to be significant as a result of an onslaught of “raiding” throughout every July and August – the busiest time of year.  We also have concerns about changes that give the Labour Relations Board broader powers.  While it is important to protect the rights of workers, it is also important to protect the rights of employers.

See the full news release.