On February 6, BC Minister of Labour Harry Bains appointed a panel of special advisors ("Panel") to review British Columbia's Labour Relations Code to ensure workplaces support fair laws for workers and businesses, while at the same time ensuring consistency and best practices with other jurisdictions in Canada. The Panel was tasked with providing recommendations to government on amending the Labour Relations Code to better support a growing and sustainable economy by August 2018.

To help amplify the voice of employers, the CFA joined a coalition of 13 like-minded business associations. On March 20, the coalition made a joint submission to the BC Labour Relations Code Review Panel, which supports the Review's mandate, and calls for any changes to the Code to be cognizant of, and not compromise, the ability of BC's economy to attract investment, talent and jobs in the process. The CFA will also be making an in-person deputation to the Panel on Wednesday, March 21 in Victoria.

It should be noted that this is a review of the Labour Relations Code only. We will continue to be part of consultations for the Employment Standards Act, which is expected to follow.

Should you have any questions, concerns or comments, please don't hesitate to contact Ryan Eickmeier, Vice President, Government Relations & Public Policy at [email protected] or by phone at 416-695-2896 ext. 297.