HALIFAX (Nova-Scotia), October 21, 2026 — Members of the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC) will rally in downtown Halifax on Friday, October 23, to oppose Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act, and call on the federal government to protect workers’ rights and free collective bargaining.
Bill C-39 would give the federal Minister of Labour broad new powers to intervene in lawful strikes and lockouts, including directing the Canada Industrial Relations Board to end job action, extend collective agreements or impose a binding process to settle a dispute.
PIPSC is concerned that these powers could undermine workers’ leverage at the bargaining table. When employers can expect government intervention once a strike becomes disruptive, there is less pressure on them to negotiate seriously and reach a fair deal.
The legislation also raises concerns for PIPSC members about public-service capacity, professional independence and the role of expert evidence as the government seeks to accelerate major-project approvals.
Friday’s lunchtime rally will bring together federal public-service professionals and labour leaders to call for fair collective bargaining, respect for workers’ rights and a strong public service.
What: Rally against Bill C-39 and in support of workers’ rights
When: Friday, October 23, 2026 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. ADT
Where: Victoria Park, Halifax Across from the Lord Nelson Hotel
Speakers:
Mark Bellefleur, Atlantic Regional Director, PIPSC
Eva Henshaw, Vice President, Part-time, PIPSC
Stéphanie Fréchette, Vice President, Full-time, PIPSC
Melissa Marsman, President, Nova Scotia Federation of Labour
PIPSC is a Canadian union representing over 80,000 public-sector professionals across the country, most of them employed by the federal government. Follow PIPSC on Facebook, on Bluesky and on Instagram.
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For more information: PIPSC Media Relations, media@pipsc.ca
