Province Clarifies Role of Arbitrators

Employers and unionized employees will benefit as the province clarifies the role and authority of arbitrators in resolving grievance disputes.

Amendments introduced today, Dec. 2, to the Trade Union Act will simplify legislation and consolidate the powers of arbitrators into one section. The authority of arbitrators has been spread throughout several pieces of legislation or determined by case law.

"Labour relations legislation is an important tool that ensures both labour and management know the ground rules when it comes to resolving a grievance," said Minister Marilyn More, Labour and Workforce Development.

"We will continue to support the collective bargaining process and these amendments will help make sure that everyone involved has a clear understanding of the important role that arbitrators play in that process."

The amendments were developed through close consultation with the Arbitrator Advisory Committee, which consists of labour, business and government representatives.