PCA: “Restoring Balance in Alberta’s Workplace” a Job Well Done
Bill 32, the Restoring Balance in Alberta’s Workplaces Act will benefit industry, workers and all Albertans, according to the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA) whose member companies build major infrastructure projects and employ thousands of Alberta and B.C. construction workers.
PCA is a strong supporter of Bill 32, which is aimed at supporting economic recovery, a more balanced workplace and getting Albertans back to work.
“The government has just taken another major step in putting the province on much sounder economic footing,” said Paul de Jong, President of the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA). “PCA members stand ready to keep building a stronger Alberta.”
One of the highlights of Bill 32, is that all-employee bargaining units are now the “law of the land.” Since its inception 20 years ago, PCA has championed the all-employee bargaining units or the “wall-to-wall” model, which allows companies to bargain with multiple trades as one unit. Over the years, this model has allowed PCA members to make major contributions to “The Alberta Advantage” – particularly in the development of the energy sector.
“We’re delighted that the Alberta government recognizes the value of the progressive labour model,” said Paul de Jong, President of the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA). “These labour code changes are good for our members, our industry and all Albertans by helping to keep our province competitive.”
Several other changes that PCA supports, include:
- Provisions for continuation of agreements, which provide a more stable investment climate by stipulating that collective agreements will stay in place until they expire (should employees choose a new union).
- Early renewal of collective agreements, which allows employees and employers to renew an existing collective agreement before it expires. This emphasizes the importance of companies and labour working together collaboratively.
