Episode 6: Government Interference with Public Sector Bargaining with Guest Jason Foster

This episode features an interview between Geri Ruston and Jason Foster. Jason Foster is a director, researcher and policy analyst with the Parkland Institute. With a focus on labour rights and public sector issues, Foster has contributed to several reports examining government interference in public sector bargaining. His recent work addresses Alberta’s Bill 5 (PSEA), legislation that limits workers' rights to bargain and strike collectively, which we will discuss in this podcast. The report highlights five key legislative interventions restricting union power, including back-to-work orders, essential services mandates, and right-to-strike limitations. Foster’s analysis also explores strategies unions can employ to challenge these restrictions, such as increasing bargaining coordination, adopting sectoral bargaining, and addressing the role of the Provincial Bargaining and Compensation Office (PBCO) in negotiations. Through his work, Foster emphasizes the importance of unions organizing effectively and leveraging public support, particularly after the pandemic underscored the value of public sector workers.Please note, the information, opinions, and recommendations expressed by guests and hosts in this Podcast are their own those don’t necessarily reflect the views of Local 196 or United Nurses of Alberta.   If you have enjoyed the content of this podcast or have any suggestions for improvement, please reach out to the local 196 executive at [email protected] and/or leave a comment.  We can also be reached at https://local196una.ca/