Problem
Describe how a public sector strike and a private sector strike have affected you differently. Discuss how the interests of the public during a strike affect the dynamics of labour relations in the public sector as compared to the private sector. How do these differences affect the relative bargaining power of the parties? How might these factors explain some of the differences in unionization trends between the public and private sector?
What relevance do unions have today? In order to stay relevant into the future, what recommendations would you make to leaders of the labour movement?
Reflect on the declining rate of unionization in Canada and the shifting composition of the labour force and unions. What does this trends indicate about labour relations in Canada? What unique features of the Canadian labour relations system contribute to the relatively strong rate of unionization in Canada as compared to many other countries? What accounts for some of the differences between the rate of unionization between Canada and the United States?