Note that this general information pertains to the 2004 Treasury Board / CRA / Parks strike.
When will we be on strike?
The union is in a legal strike position seven days after the release of the conciliation board report. Once the seven days have passed, the union is free to engage in strike action.
What happens to our collective agreement when we’re on strike?
The “Notice to Bargain” essentially freezes the terms and conditions of employment outlined in your collective agreement during the negotiations process. However, once we are in a legal strike position, the freeze no longer applies and the collective agreement is no longer in force.
What happens if I’m on vacation or maternity leave when the strike is called?
If vacation has been approved in advance, it is normally still allowed. If you’re on maternity leave, EI benefits are still available, however, because the collective agreement is no longer in force, the employer’s top-up is not guaranteed.
I’m designated and don’t want to cross a picket line. What can happen to me?
The law says that designated employees are essential to the safety and security of the country. Refusing to report for work can result in discipline and fines.
There are many other ways designates can support strike efforts, e.g. delayed entry, being mindful of what work and the amount of work that designated workers do during the strike, as well as joining the picket line before/after work and during breaks. Designated workers are also critical in keeping the Strike Captain informed about the employer’s tactics during the strike and the effects of the strike on the employer’s operation, as well as ensuring only designated employees are working.