The unions emphasized that existing essential services regulations already ensure public safety during strikes. The new legislation's vague concept of "well-being" as a criterion for limiting strike action lacks a clear legal definition and could face constitutional challenges.

Speaking at a parliamentary commission, Quebec Union Congress President Éric Gingras said "If we want to talk about public well-being let's discuss improving early childhood education services, working conditions in community organizations, and stopping healthcare cuts. That's where public welfare truly begins - not by undermining fundamental labor rights."

For APTS president Robert Comeau, "the government is infringing on everyone's rights to solve a problem that is, in reality, an exception. Rather than undermining employees' rights, it should tackle the actual issues that are compromising services to Quebecers: difficult working conditions, work overload, and employee retention.”

Since 2000, approximately 95% of collective bargaining agreements in Quebec have been resolved through direct negotiation or conciliation. During the period 2000-2020, employer-initiated lockouts caused significantly more lost workdays (757) than worker strikes (172), challenging the government's narrative about disruptive labor actions.

The union's resistance to Bill 89 highlights a broader global pattern where governments attempt to weaken labor rights while simultaneously undermining public services through budget cuts and privatization.

"Strikes are not a threat to people's well-being, because, in over 90% of cases, negotiations are settled without even having to resort to a strike. But instead of seeking to rebalance things, this bill clearly gives employers the upper hand by limiting employees' rights. The FIQ sincerely wonders what motivates the government, other than a partisan agenda aimed at favoring its friends," questions Julie Bouchard, President of the FIQ.