Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105) - Canada (Ratification: 1959)

The Committee notes the Government’s report.

Article 1(c) and (d) of the Convention. In its earlier comments the Committee referred to section 247(1)(b), (c) and (e) of the Canada Shipping Act, under which penalties of imprisonment involving compulsory labour may be imposed for breaches of discipline that do not endanger the safety of the ship or the life or health of persons. The Committee notes with interest the Government’s indications that the new Canada Shipping Act 2001 passed Parliament in May 2001 and is currently being studied by the Senate Transportation Committee, and that the concept of possible imprisonment for wilful disobedience by a seafarer or an apprentice of any lawful command is not contemplated or reflected in the new Act.

The Committee hopes that the new Canada Shipping Act will be adopted in the near future and that no penalties of imprisonment involving compulsory labour  will be provided for breaches of labour discipline that do not endanger the safety of the ship or the life or health of persons. It asks the Government to supply a copy of the new Shipping Act, as soon as it is adopted.