EMPLOYMENT · SECTION
Labour markets, hiring, layoffs, wages, worker rights, and employment trends.
The Liberal government has introduced Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act, which amends the Canada Labour Code to streamline project approvals and introduce new measures for resolving labour disputes. While the government argues the bill provides necessary guardrails and transparency, union leaders criticize it as an attack on workers' rights that formalizes government intervention in strikes.
A new report by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives highlights significant barriers to unionization in Nova Scotia, including strict timelines and employer delays. The study recommends policy changes such as single-step certification and extended card validity periods.
Microsoft's Xbox division is cutting an additional 268 jobs and moving future Halo game development to Activision as part of a broader company-wide restructuring.
The Government of Canada has introduced Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act, aiming to accelerate project approvals through a one-year timeline and modernize federal labour relations. While the government argues the bill boosts competitiveness and worker protections, environmental groups and unions have raised concerns about weakened oversight and expanded government powers over strikes.
Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem stated that persistent U.S. trade tariffs could reduce fourth-quarter economic growth to below 1 per cent, while Middle East conflicts threaten to keep inflation near the central bank's upper target range.
Recent data from Robert Half Canada and Remitly shows a sharp decline in remote and hybrid job postings in Canada, with on-site roles becoming the dominant requirement. Despite this shift, surveys indicate that Canadian workers continue to prioritize flexibility, leading many to consider seeking new employment.
The Liberal government plans to amend the Canada Labour Code, specifically Section 107, to facilitate collective agreements rather than prevent strikes. This move follows recent interventions in Air Canada disputes and comes alongside the 'Building Canada Strong Act' aimed at expediting federal project approvals.
The Government of Canada has launched the 'Team Canada Strong' initiative, an $8 billion investment designed to recruit and train skilled trades workers. The plan includes paid youth job placements, completion bonuses for Red Seal certified tradespeople, and financial incentives for employers hiring apprentices.
The Ontario Science Centre has laid off 30 workers, including its entire science department, as part of a restructuring led by CEO Paul Kortenaar. The move coincides with plans to open a new $1-billion facility at Ontario Place in 2029, drawing criticism from union leaders and opposition politicians.
The Government of Canada announced progress on the In-Canada Workers Initiative, aiming to grant permanent residence to up to 33,000 temporary workers in smaller communities by 2027. Between January and February 2026, 3,600 workers were already approved.
The Government of Canada has introduced temporary immigration measures to address labour shortages in Quebec and rural areas. Eligible temporary foreign workers in Quebec can extend their work permits by up to 12 months, while rural employers are permitted to increase their low-wage temporary worker cap from 10% to 15%.
