Labour reforms must reflect small business realities

Written by admin | Aug 19, 2026, 8:51:50 PM

When work stoppages hit federally regulated sectors, entrepreneurs often pay the price despite having no voice at the bargaining table. Even worse, the impacts are felt long after work stoppages end. Unfortunately, with many collective agreements looking to be renewed in 2026¹, future labour disputes are a looming risk for the small business community.

With the possibility of more work stoppages on the horizon, businesses need more than just sympathy or reassurance; they need a way to better mitigate the potentially costly risks ahead.

Ottawa must consider the broader economic impact

Recently, Ottawa consulted key stakeholders on potential reforms to the Canada Labour Code. CFIB shared its recommendations for government:

Keep Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code, which allows the federal government to intervene when labour disruptions threaten the public interest or the economy.
Require independent economic impact assessments before major strikes or lockouts are allowed.
Strengthen maintenance of activities requirements to preserve critical supply chain functions during disputes.
Encourage earlier mediation and dispute resolution to prevent disruptions before they occur.
Avoid measures that prolong uncertainty, such as extending strike mandates throughout the entire collective bargaining cycle.

Small businesses make up the overwhelming majority of federally regulated employees (97.5%)².

The Labour Code is not a document designed to favour workers at the expense of employers. It is a document that establishes fair and equitable rules to protect the supply chain and the Canadian economy. As Ottawa considers reforms to the Canada Labour Code, policymakers must ensure that the interests of small businesses and the broader economy are part of the conversation.

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