For the first time in over a century, discussions have arisen in Alberta about the possibility of a widespread strike, spurred by the provincial government’s controversial use of the notwithstanding clause to end a teachers’ strike. The Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL), comprising 24 unions with a total of 175,000 workers, is at the forefront of this movement. AFL President Gil McGowan, who also heads the larger collective known as Common Front, has emphasized solidarity among workers in response to the government’s actions against collective bargaining rights.
The legality of a general strike is a complex issue. The proposed general strike by the AFL would not meet the criteria set by the Alberta Labour Relations Board for a legal strike. The board mandates specific conditions, including the expiration of collective agreements, engaging in collective bargaining, mediation involvement, a cooling-off period, and a supervised vote before a strike can proceed.
James Muir, an associate professor at the University of Alberta, highlights the potential impact of general strikes as tools for unification among workers from various sectors. While legal strikes offer certain protections to employees, illegal strikes can have severe consequences, such as fines and job terminations. Alberta has a history of facing legal repercussions due to past strikes, as seen in the case of nurses in 1988.
The recent use of legislative powers by the Alberta government, exemplified by the invoking of the notwithstanding clause in the Back to School Act, has further complicated the situation. The act imposes significant financial penalties on individuals and unions defying back-to-work orders, while also extending the suspension of bargaining rights until 2028.
Reflecting on Canada’s past experiences with general strikes, such as the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919, provides insight into the potential outcomes of such actions. Despite the risks involved, the AFL sees a general strike as a means to unify workers and challenge the government’s labor policies. However, the effectiveness of such strikes remains debated, with concerns about government interventions and the use of legislative measures to suppress strike actions.
McGowan stresses the importance of strategic planning and widespread support among unions before embarking on a general strike. While the decision to proceed with a strike carries inherent risks, the current political climate in Alberta may present a critical opportunity for meaningful collective action.