Again, it is a question of achieving a balance. However, the submissions we received from representatives of both management and labour convince us that trade unions continue to demonstrate creativity, responsiveness and democracy. Labour unions deserve recognition for their role as representatives of employees. While many workers do not choose collective representation, many others freely do. As spokespersons for such a significant segment of Canada's working population, unions are entitled to a full seat at the table when labour and related social and economic policies are being decided.
Employers too deserve recognition for what they do.
Capital can be used in many ways, and a country should be grateful when it is used to employ people. Without management and labour working together, we cannot sustain the domestic consumption, the job creation and the production that are essential to support our social and economic well-being. Rights and Responsibilities A fourth balance that must be achieved is between rights and responsibilities. We have adopted a system of collective bargaining that allows employers and employees through their unions to negotiate and periodically adjust terms and conditions of employment. This system does not just grant rights to strike or to lockout.