Workers in New Brunswick are using Labour Day to call for stronger protections as governments review key workplace rules.
The New Brunswick Federation of Labour says the federal review of the Canada Labour Code has raised concerns about workers losing bargaining power at a time when many families are facing rising costs.
President Chris Watson said workers rely on collective bargaining and, when needed, the right to strike to secure fair wages, benefits and safer workplaces.
“Weakening workers’ rights won’t lower grocery bills, make housing more affordable, or create better jobs,” Watson said in the release.
He said those gains support families, strengthen local economies and raise standards for workers across Canada.
Watson said governments play an important role in ensuring workers have a meaningful voice on the job and in keeping a level playing field where employers and workers can negotiate fair agreements.
The federation says it will continue working with the New Brunswick government to improve worker protections.
That includes pushing for proactive pay‑equity legislation for the private sector.
The federation is also opposing what it describes as the privatization of essential public services, including cuts to large‑animal veterinary and laboratory services and school library services.