1. Social Studies 9
Labour Unions

2. What is a labour union?
An organization of workers that acts to protect workers’ rights and interests
By organizing workers into a group, unions can pressure employers about wages, working hours and workplace safety

3. What if a labour union becomes unhappy?
If a labour union is not happy with their current working conditions or wants more money then they can go on strike
A strike is a form of pressure
During a strike, workers as a group can refuse to do their jobs

4. What is Collective Bargaining?
Collective bargaining is a key right established by unions for workers. This means that the labour union can negotiate the terms of their employment as a group.

5. Labour Unions in Canada’s Past
Governments in Canada have opposed unions at times
For example, the Winnipeg General Strike
At the time a revolution occurred in Russia where the workers overthrew the government demanding better working conditions and higher wages
The Canadian government feared the same thing would happen if labour unions were allowed in Canada
RESULT: responded with arrests and and 1 person died when police were sent in to stop the strike

6. Labour Unions in Canada Today
Labour unions exist in many parts of Canada’s economy (ex. Education, health care, public service)
Canada has labour laws such as the Canada Labour Code. Establishes that workers have the right to form unions. Also describes bargaining procedures for unions and employers.