In this unit we will explore the roles of government and citizens in two important areas of public law: the environment and the workplace. We will analyze legislation that affects both areas and develop an understanding of how citizens can have an impact as well. As a group will will present a proposed bill or amendment to existing laws in front of a legislative Cabinet to deal with a problem or new development in one of the two areas.
Citizens, the Government, and the Environment
Compared to constitutional laws or even labour laws, environmental law is a relatively new and evolving area in the legal realm. In Canada, the environmental movement began in the late 1960s. In 1971, the federal government established the Department of the Environment to protect the natural environment. This included conserving renewable resources, protecting Canada’s water, and enforcing boundary water regulations. It is also responsible for organizing environmental policies and programs at the federal level.
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Early Labour Unions and The Work Force
Labor Unions in Canada, organizations that represent Canadian workers in their negotiations with employers. Labor unions engage in collective bargaining with employers to determine issues such as wages, the terms and conditions of work, and worker security. Unions also engage in political activities on behalf of workers and have historically had ties to political parties, such as the New Democratic Party (NDP). In 1999, 3.6 million employees of a total workforce of 11.9 million belonged to unions, and the union movement in Canada represented 30 percent of the paid labor force.
Labor law establishes the rules that govern labor relations between employers and employees. In the 19th century, most labor law in Canada restricted, and even outlawed, worker organization and strikes. The government often considered organizations of employees to be illegal conspiracies that restrained trade. By the end of the 19th century, however, the government no longer legally restricted most trade union activity. In 1900 the federal Conciliation Act established voluntary dispute-settlement mechanisms for employees and employers. The Industrial Disputes Investigation Act (1907) included compulsory conciliation, in which workers and employers were required to meet with a mediator prior to a legal work stoppage. Compulsory conciliation became a distinctive feature of the Canadian industrial relations system.
Labor law establishes the rules that govern labor relations between employers and employees. In the 19th century, most labor law in Canada restricted, and even outlawed, worker organization and strikes. The government often considered organizations of employees to be illegal conspiracies that restrained trade. By the end of the 19th century, however, the government no longer legally restricted most trade union activity. In 1900 the federal Conciliation Act established voluntary dispute-settlement mechanisms for employees and employers. The Industrial Disputes Investigation Act (1907) included compulsory conciliation, in which workers and employers were required to meet with a mediator prior to a legal work stoppage. Compulsory conciliation became a distinctive feature of the Canadian industrial relations system.
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The Principals of International Law
In our increasingly globalized world, our youth are becoming more and more citizens of the world. As such, they need a solid understanding of social justice, human rights, global democracy and their role in the creation of just societies. This resource aims to provide high school students with the knowledge they need to become effective global citizens and undertake global responsibilities as Canadians. International law has many facets, including human rights and humanitarian law, and is increasingly a defining force in our global world. A basic understanding of international legal principles is vital for youth to be able to understand and respond to pressing issues faced by the world today.
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Resolving Conflicts at the International Setting
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Exam Review Questions
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