On February 19, 2025, Québec Minister of Labour Jean Boulet introduced Bill 89, which would amend the Québec Labour Code and related provisions to safeguard the well-being of the population by maintaining necessary services during strikes or lock-outs. According to the bill, the goal is to prevent “disproportionat[e]” impacts on “social, economic or environmental security,” especially for vulnerable populations.

The legislative changes would apply to all employers and unions under provincial jurisdiction in Québec, with the exception of the health and public service sectors, which already have specific provisions to maintain a wide range of services.

Quick Hits

• On February 19, 2025, Québec Minister of Labour Jean Boulet introduced legislation that would ensure necessary services are maintained during strikes or lock-outs to protect public well-being.
• The bill would empower the government and the Administrative Labour Tribunal to ensure necessary services are maintained during work stoppages, balancing the right to strike with public welfare.
• The bill would allow the minister of labour to refer disputes to arbitration if mediation has failed and a strike or lock-out poses or threatens serious harm to the population.

In recent years, work stoppages have significantly affected Québec citizens. Consequently, Bill 89 proposes solutions to balance the needs of the public with the respect to the right to strike or lock out.

Proposed Legislative Changes

The proposed changes...

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