Bill C-39 faces opposition from labour unions and First Nations

Bill C-39, known as the Building Canada Strong Act, is facing significant opposition from both labour organizations and First Nations groups as it moves through the Canadian Parliament.

The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) has criticized the omnibus bill, specifically Section 107, claiming it would grant the government the “broadest strike intervention powers in the G7.” CLC Secretary-Treasurer Lily Chang stated that the provision could allow a single minister to shut down legal strikes without parliamentary oversight. The CLC has indicated intentions to file a complaint with the International Labour Organization regarding these potential violations of international labour standards. In response, Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu suggested the provisions aim to reduce intervention rates, though she noted they could allow for greater intervention during prolonged negotiations through a “special mediator.”

Simultaneously, four First Nations organizations—including the Chiefs of Ontario and the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador—have demanded the federal government withdraw the bill. These groups argue that the legislation’s “one project, one review, within one year” approach prioritizes federal timelines over Indigenous rights and consultation. They contend that the bill weakens environmental oversight and conflicts with the United Nations Declaration Act by attempting to fast-track major infrastructure projects through predetermined schedules that do not allow for free, prior, and informed consent.