AMENDMENTS TO THE TRADE UNION ACT INTRODUCED

Workers and employers will soon have a mechanism to ensure first collective agreements are settled in a timely fashion.

Amendments to The Trade Union Act introduced today will require the union and the employer to commence bargaining within 20 days of the certification of a new bargaining unit. As well, either party may apply to the Labour Relations Board for assistance in concluding a first collective agreement if 90 days has passed since the Board certified the new bargaining unit.

"We all know collective bargaining can be a long and difficult process, but it can be especially difficult for a newly certified workplace negotiating a first contract," Labour Minister Deb Higgins said. "These amendments will mean more timely settlements with less disruption in the workplace – and that's good for everyone involved."

Other amendments introduced today will streamline the work of the Labour Relations Board by:

· Allowing members of the Board to complete their active cases even though their appointments have expired;

· Allowing the chair and vice-chairs of the Board to sit alone to hear applications respecting duty of fair representation; and

· Clarifying the procedural powers and duties of the Board

"This is all about improving the workings of the Board by reducing delays resulting from purely procedural matters," Higgins said. "More timely rulings will reduce costs and uncertainty for both employers and unions."

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For More Information, Contact:

Dallas McQuarrie Labour Regina Phone: (306) 787-1545