Important amendments to the Canada Labour Code

We wish to inform you that, as of June 20, 2025, important amendments to the Canada Labour Code will come into effect.
 

1. The maintenance of certain essential activities—commonly referred to as “essential services”—now involves new procedures for filing agreements or applications with the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB). These procedures apply to any collective bargaining process where the notice to bargain was issued on or after June 20, 2025.
2. The employer’s duties and obligations regarding the use of replacement workers during a work stoppage have also changed. The new provisions on the use of replacement workers apply to any strike or lockout that is ongoing on June 20, 2025 or begins thereafter.

To help you understand and comply with these changes, the CIRB has developed new Rules of Procedures and forms, as well as comprehensive web pages, for both topics. These resources outline key obligations, deadlines, procedures, and the Board’s handling of related applications and complaints.

You can access the new Rules of Procedures here: Rules of Procedures - Canada Industrial Relations Board

You can access the new forms here: Forms - Canada Industrial Relations Board 

We strongly encourage you to review this information to ensure compliance. If you have any questions or need support with a specific file, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Maryse Tremblay
Chairperson
Canada Industrial Relations Board