Labour board rules Bank of Canada broke anti-scab law twice in security dispute

The Canada Industrial Relations Board ruled on July 22 that the Bank of Canada violated the Canada Labour Code by hiring replacement workers — a second time in the ongoing strike with its security officers.

The bank used contractor Pinkerton Consulting & Investigations to fill gaps left when approximately 50 security officers represented by the Public Service Alliance of Canada walked out on June 23. The violation mirrors an earlier ruling on July 7, when the bank was found using Garda Canada Security Corporation and workers who crossed the picket line.

Federal anti-scab legislation that took effect last year explicitly prohibits employers from hiring replacements to perform bargaining-unit work during a strike. The Bank of Canada now faces potential fines up to $100,000 per day under the Canada Labour Code.

In response, the bank said it is "exploring all legal options," signalling a likely court challenge at Federal Court. A spokesperson stated the bank has "taken alternative measures to secure the physical security of its facilities" and will "take all necessary measures to ensure Canada's central bank is secure."

The union's local vice-president, Patrick Tessier, said the ruling left striking officers "ecstatic" but also cemented frustration over the bank's treatment of its workers. No official bargaining date has been set since June 22, the day before the strike began. The bank has cancelled or no-showed several negotiation meetings, including one scheduled for July 23.