The British Columbia government has released the findings of its 2024 Labour Relations Code Review Panel and is asking for public feedback on proposed changes to provincial workplace laws.
The independent panel’s report is now available on the govTogetherBC website, where employers, unions and other stakeholders can comment on recommendations that could affect how workers join unions, how collective bargaining works and how workplace disputes get resolved.
The Ministry of Labour will review the feedback before deciding which recommendations to implement.
Panel examined current workplace needs
The three-member review panel, appointed in February 2024, included Michael Fleming, Sandra Banister and Lindsie Thomson. Their job was to examine whether B.C.’s labour laws meet the needs of modern workplaces and align with protections available to workers in other provinces.
Between February and May 2024, the panel conducted research, accepted written submissions and held public hearings across the province. They heard from Indigenous partners, labour organizations, businesses, industry groups, individual citizens and legal professionals.
The panel submitted its report to the former labour minister on Aug. 31, 2024.
Regular reviews required by law
B.C. legislation requires the labour minister to appoint a review committee every five years to examine the Labour Relations Code and make recommendations for updates.
The current code governs relationships between provincially regulated employers, workers and trade unions. It covers collective bargaining processes, union certification procedures, employer-union interactions and dispute resolution mechanisms.
History of code changes
The last comprehensive review took place in 2018, leading to significant amendments in 2019 and 2022. Earlier comprehensive reviews occurred in 1992 and 2003, with major changes implemented in 2001 and 2002.
The Labour Relations Code applies to most private sector workplaces in B.C., though some industries fall under federal jurisdiction.
View the Labour Relations Code review 2024 engagement webpage and the panel’s report: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/govtogetherbc/engagement/labour-relations-code-review/
