Saskatchewan Federation of Labour, et al. v. Her Majesty the Queen

Case # 35423
Saskatchewan Federation of Labour ), et al. v. Her Majesty the Queen (May 16, 2014)

In May 2008, the Government of Saskatchewan enacted the public service essential services act (The PSESA). At the same time the government of Saskatchewan also enacted the trade union amendment act (The TUAA). The PSESA introduced restrictions on public sector workers who provide essential services to engage in strike activity. The TUAA changed existing provincial labour legislation to make it somewhat more difficult for unions to obtain certification as bargaining agents. The Saskatchewan Federation of labour and numerous unions are challenging the constitutionality of these pieces of legislation. The unions claim the legislation infringes on charter rights, notably the freedom of association and freedom of expression.