The Anglican Diocese of Edmonton has raised issues regarding the Alberta government’s utilization of the notwithstanding clause to compel striking teachers to resume work. Bishop Stephen London penned a public letter recently, expressing his worries about the potential impact of the legislation on the religious freedoms of Canadians. London highlighted that invoking the clause to end the teachers’ strike contradicts the Charter’s protection of freedom of association, which could impede individuals’ freedom of conscience and religion.
Last week, the United Conservative Party government employed the notwithstanding clause to expedite back-to-work laws and halt a provincewide teachers’ strike that commenced on October 6. London urged Premier Danielle Smith to withdraw the legislation and permit teachers to engage in collective bargaining further, emphasizing the moral and spiritual dimensions of the issue. He stressed the significance of democratic rights and freedoms in Canadian society, especially as global democratic institutions face challenges, advocating for a reconsideration of the government’s actions.
In response, Heather Jenkins, press secretary for Justice Minister Mickey Amery, defended the use of the notwithstanding clause as a crucial mechanism for governments to maintain a balance of power between courts and elected bodies, ensuring legislative sovereignty in the public interest. The Alberta government justified its decision, asserting that it was necessary for students to return to classrooms promptly.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton has not yet commented on whether it shares Bishop London’s apprehensions about the situation.