Quebec adopts law to force government lawyers and notaries back to work

Quebec’s national assembly adopted legislation on Tuesday to force striking government lawyers and notaries back to work. (Photo: Harvey Barrison/Flickr)

Quebec’s national assembly adopted legislation on Tuesday to force striking government lawyers and notaries back to work.

The bill passed by a 52-38 margin after a lengthy debate, with the three opposition parties voting against it.

The 1,100 lawyers and notaries were ordered to return to work Wednesday.

They have been on strike since October to seek wage parity with Crown prosecutors in Quebec.

They also want status comparable to that of the prosecutors. That would force the government to accept the recommendation of a third party in determining their salary.

Under the legislation, the lawyers and notaries will have 45 days to negotiate a contract.