FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

June 7, 2024 – Ottawa, ON - In light of the potential for job action on the part of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) and the 9,000-plus Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) workers it represents, the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) urges all parties involved to consider the potential impact on Canada's many world-class travel destinations and attractions. 

PSAC is currently in talks with the Treasury Board of Canada with the hopes of negotiating an updated collective agreement for the CBSA. Failure to reach an agreement would have dire consequences for myriad sectors including, but not limited to, travel and tourism.  

Though the workers provide a service deemed essential and are therefore prohibited from striking, they can implement “work to rule”—a practice involving pedantry and the performance of the full range of their duties. For instance, border patrol officers could inspect every vehicle and ask any number of questions within their remit.  

Such an adherence would stymie the flow of cross-border traffic, disrupting the exchange of goods, nullifying the conduct of international business, and discouraging tourists from both the U.S. and Canada from exploring their neighbours. This is especially pertinent at Vancouver and Windsor—two of the busiest crossings—where “work to rule” implementation could instigate several hours of wait times, confusion, and frustration for all involved. 

Tourism is a significant economic driver in Canada. 

• In 2023, Canada's tourism demand hit a record high with $113.4 billion in spending 

• Tourism's contribution to Canada's total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was $42.7 billion in 2023 representing 1.6% of the economy. 

• Tourism employment surpassed 2 million in 2023 growing 7% from the previous year. 

Says Beth Potter, President & CEO of TIAC, “TIAC hopes that both parties can reach an equitable settlement that alleviates the need for more severe action—action that would negatively impact numerous sectors, including the ecosystem of Canadian tourism. This is of incredible import as any job action would impede the momentum the industry has built in its recovery from the pandemic and stifle the growth in number of visitors to this country. Focus should instead be placed on reinvigorating travel, not inhibiting it; to present the culture and values of Canada to the world and cement its reputation as a world-class destination.” 

For Media Inquiries, please contact: 
communications@tiac-aitc.ca