Ontario Severance

Industrial Hardwood Products (1996) Ltd. v. International Wood and Allied Workers of Canada, Local 2693

2001 CanLII 24071 (ON CA)Court of Appeal for OntarioDecided Labour relations

Union Picketing Injunction: Freedom of Expression

Summary

An appeal to the Court of Appeal from a motion judge's decision granting an interlocutory injunction during a lawful strike. The employer, Industrial Hardwood Products (1996) Ltd., obtained an injunction against striking union members who obstructed replacement workers' vans. The motion judge granted an order prohibiting obstruction and limiting the number of picketers to four at each entrance. The Court of Appeal decided to strike down the limit on the number of picketers, ruling it went further than necessary and unreasonably restricted the right to expression. The injunction against obstructing vehicular access stands.

Outcome

appeal allowed in part

Key Factors

  • interlocutory injunction
  • lawful strike
  • picketing
  • freedom of expression
  • collective bargaining

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More Ontario employment decisions from 2001

This summary was written by AI from the published decision and its headnote. It is not an official version of the decision; read the full text on CanLII before relying on it. This is legal information, not legal advice. Ontario Severance is an educational tool. If you are facing a serious employment law matter, consult with a qualified employment lawyer in Ontario.