Construction industry welcomes BC Labour Code changes

August 14 2001 - Following Labour Minister Graham Bruce's announcement of amendments to British Columbia's Labour Code the construction industry was quick to voice its approval.

The Independent Contractors and Businesses Association of BC, a BC construction industry employers' organization, argued that the return of the secret ballot vote and the end of sectoral bargaining rules will improve BC's employment relations climate.

ICBA clamed that repeal of Glen Clark's sectoral bargaining provisions will allow employers and employees to cooperate in deciding what type of labour agreement works best for their unique circumstances.

ICBA also welcomed the repeal of NDP legislation allowing unions to suspend an employee's pension.

"The pension-suspension legislation was used by the former government and the building trades as a club to intimidate working people," Hochstein said.

"This give pensioners the right to work where they want without fear of reprisal," Hochstein said.