The Harper government’s budget includes Bill C-10, containing the Public Sector Equitable Compensation Act which threatens women’s constitutionally protected right to pay equity. This legislation is not about economic stimulus, or saving jobs and money, but has been embedded in the budget so it can be pushed through at lightning speed. Should this legislation pass:

• Women in the federal public sector won’t get equal pay for work of equal value.

• Pay equity will be made into something negotiable with employers, who traditionally hold the balance of power.

• Unions will be fined $50,000 if they are found to be helping or encouraging women to fight a pay equity complaint.

• It will be impossible to narrow the income gap between men and women within the federal public service.


This issue isn't specific only to women in the federal public service. This is about the erosion of all women’s constitutionally protected rights.

UPDATE: On Friday, March 13th, Bill C-10 was given Royal Assent in Parliament, despite the efforts of thousands of Canadians who lobbied hard to have the Public Sector Equitable Compensation Act extracted from the omnibus budget bill and debated separately. We give thanks to all those who fought hard to preserve pay equity - and the fight isn't over yet! Please follow this link for more information on the legislation, and what we can do to continue our fight for pay equity. http://www.psac.com/news/2009/messages/20090313-e.shtml

For more information on the issue, please scroll down to the 'recent news' section below. You will find the omnibus Bill C-10, as well as a link to the Public Sector Equitable Compensation Act which is part of the Bill. Please do not take this legislation at face-value. READ THE ANALYSIS LINKS PROVIDED to understand its implications. (read less)

The Harper government’s budget includes Bill C-10, containing the Public Sector Equitable Compensation Act which threatens women’s constitutionally protected right to pay equity. This legislation is not about economic stimulus, or saving jobs and money, but has been embedded in the budget so it can be pushed through at lightning speed. Should this legislation pass:

• Women in the federal public sector won’t get equal pay for work of equal value.

• Pay equity will be made into something... (read more)