Radio-Canada faces threat of labour action on federal election debate day, September 23

Radio-Canada management has begun preparing for the possibility that the federal election leaders' debate could be cancelled if labour action escalates on September 23, the same day the event is scheduled.

A management memo obtained by La Presse revealed the broadcaster is contingency-planning after the Syndicat des travailleuses et travailleurs de Radio-Canada (STTRC-CSN) signalled that a strike could be "very certainly" considered in the fall if salary offers are not improved. The union filed a notice of dispute with the federal labour ministry last month.

The collective agreement for Radio-Canada employees has been expired since March. The union is seeking 15 per cent salary increases over three years, while management has proposed 12.25 per cent over five years.

Both technicians and journalists, including on-air host Patrice Roy who is set to moderate the debate from Radio-Canada's Atrium, are STTRC members. The debate cannot be moved to an earlier date, making September 23 a critical flashpoint if negotiations fail.

If a work stoppage begins, it could jeopardize not only the leaders' debate but also the broadcast of regular news and information programming. However, the union has not yet held a strike vote and no general assembly of employees is currently scheduled to authorize such action.

Radio-Canada declined to negotiate on the record, saying it wishes to reach "an agreement negotiated" with the union. The conciliation and mediation process will continue through the federal labour ministry.