Quebec City, November 24, 2025 — The Fédération indépendante des syndicats autonomes (FISA) wishes to respond to the tabling of Bill 3 by the Minister of Labour, entitled An Act to improve the transparency, governance and democratic process of various associations in the workplace.
Although FISA shares the principles of transparency, democracy and sound governance, it considers that the measures proposed in this bill constitute an unjustified and disproportionate interference in union affairs.
FISA also deplores not being called to appear at the upcoming public hearings, despite the fact that it represents a significant number of affiliated unions of modest size that risk being financially weakened because of the heavy requirements set out in the bill. The government appears to have chosen to hear only the major union federations, whose situation does not reflect the full range of union realities in Quebec. The Association des dentistes propriétaires du Québec has, for its part, been invited, which only adds to the lack of understanding.
Despite not being present, FISA will nonetheless submit a brief in order to set out its position on Bill 3.
FISA’s main concerns
- Optional union dues – FISA believes that introducing an optional dues system undermines freedom of association and limits the ability of unions to effectively defend their members’ rights.
- Heavy and costly procedures – The new administrative obligations provided for in the bill are likely to weaken smaller unions in particular, whose financial and organizational resources are limited.
- Mandatory 24 hour secret ballot – By disconnecting the vote from the general assembly, this measure threatens union solidarity and opens the door to decisions being made without informed debate.
- Excessive financial requirements – The obligation to carry out audits or financial reviews for unions of modest size will generate significant costs and could force an increase in dues.
- FISA nevertheless recommends that the government, which holds a parliamentary majority, reserve a greater number of decisions for local unions.
FISA’s position
By imposing uniform and restrictive rules, the bill betrays a lack of understanding of the union environment and threatens the current democratic balance. Members already have the power to amend bylaws, elect their representatives and require accountability. The bill is unnecessary and risks weakening unions to the detriment of workers.
Conclusion
FISA is calling on the government to undertake an in depth review of Bill 3 in order to respect the autonomy of union organizations and preserve their essential role as a democratic counterbalance in Quebec society.
The Fédération indépendante des syndicats autonomes (FISA) brings together more than 70 unions from various sectors of activity. It is the leading organization acting as the voice for the diversity of union realities in Quebec. Founded in 1947, it stands out for the quality of its close at hand services while preserving the autonomy and independence of the unions that make it up. Present throughout the province of Quebec, it represents nearly 6,000 members.
To consult our brief on Bill No. 3, click here.
Source and information: Mr. Réal Pleau, President of FISA
Cell: 418 564-2759 / Fax: 418 529-4695
Email: real.pleau@fisa.ca