What Counts as 'Work' Under Federal Labour Law?
Official title: The definition of "work" and the use of section 107 in the Canada Labour Code
Parliament is studying how 'work' is defined in the Canada Labour Code. Section 107 lets the government declare certain activities essential—blocking strikes in key industries. This review could reshape labour rights for federally regulated workers in banking, telecom, transportation, and more.
Why This Matters
Work for a bank, airline, or telecom company? This affects your right to strike. Section 107 lets government declare your job 'essential'—meaning no walkouts, even during contract disputes. How 'work' gets defined could determine whether gig workers and remote employees get the same protections as traditional employees.
What Could Change
Parliament could recommend changes to how 'work' is defined—potentially extending labour protections to gig workers or remote employees. The committee might also propose limits on when Section 107 can be used to block strikes. Any recommendations would need to become legislation to take effect.
Key Issues
- How should 'work' be defined in the Canada Labour Code for modern employment arrangements?
- When should Section 107 be used to declare services essential and restrict strike action?
How to Participate
- Read the news release about the study and review past meeting evidence to understand what's been discussed.
- Submit a written brief to the committee by 11:59 PM EST on Friday, January 30, 2026.
- Watch committee meetings live or on demand through ParlVU.