The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) has rejected a claim from the Canada Post workers union regarding the constitutionality of a government back-to-work order. This decision comes after the federal labour minister invoked Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code in December 2024. The minister directed the CIRB to terminate the postal workers' strike and assume control of the arbitration process.
Canada Post contended that the application of Section 107 to end the strike was unconstitutional. In its ruling, the CIRB acknowledged that while the right to strike is "essential," it is "not absolute." The board's decision included a dissent from one of its three members.
Additionally, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has sought a judicial review of the matter. However, as of now, the federal court has not issued a ruling on this request. The situation remains ongoing as the union explores its legal options.