Some employees have received instruction from management that they can work during a strike. This information is incorrect. Unless specifically part of an Essential Services Agreement (ESA) between the employer and the union and identified as a code 1, code 2, or code 3, UCTE members are not to cross the picket line neither physically nor remotely. In other words, during a strike, employees are not to work, unless identified as essential.

If not identified as part of an ESA, working during a strike, whether in the workplace or remotely, is considered scab labour and opens the worker to possible penalties, including fines, imposed by the Union.

For more information and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit the PSAC’s website regarding Treasury Board bargaining.