two decisions drew substantial opposition during dexter's third year as premier. both the conservatives and liberals tried to block a labour-friendly bill on first contract arbitration. the bill meant that if employees voted democratically to form a union but could not reach an agreement with their employer on a first-contract, then an arbitrator would create one to avoid a strike. critics said the legislation showed the ndp was on the side of workers instead of business, while advocates pointed out that similar legislation exists across canada regardless of which party is in power, reduced the number of work stoppages, and did not lead to job losses in other provinces.