Unit
Chairpersons from the 16 Sectors of the University make up
the Grievance Committee.
Nik Redman is Co Chair of the Grievance Committee and can be contacted at (416) 506-9090 x. 229 or via e-mail at: nik.redman@usw1998.ca
What
can you do if you are not sure about your rights under our collective
agreement or feel you have been treated unfairly? Is filing a
grievance the only way to fix the situation? The answer is 'no'
as there are various ways that you can have your concerns addressed.
The union can help in several ways. First and foremost, the union
negotiated the current Collective Agreement which governs the
terms and conditions of your employment. Your union representative
(Steward or Unit Chair) can provide you with information about
the collective agreement and what your rights are. Common questions
range from basic enquiries regarding holidays and salary increases
to detailed questions about the job posting procedure.
In many cases, you can resolve any potential problems by simply
talking with your manager or supervisor. However, they might be
unaware of your concerns. If you are unable to resolve your concern
with your manager or supervisor, you have other options.
In certain situations, you or your Steward can speak with your
HR representative to facilitate a solution. Sometimes a quick
call from HR to your manager or supervisor can clear up any misunderstandings
regarding the collective agreement in a non-confrontational manner.
Even so, there will be times when none of these approaches bring
you the result you need. This is when you may need to file a grievance.
A grievance should be filed when there is a violation of the collective
agreement. In other words, if the University fails to live up
to its obligations under our contract, a grievance can be a powerful
tool to achieve results.
How
does a grievance work?
You will need to meet with your Steward to determine if your situation
can be resolved through the grievance procedure (i.e. if it is
a result of the violation of the collective agreement). A grievance
is then filed with the University noting which articles of the
collective agreement have been violated. The union and the University
will then set up a hearing to discuss the case. There is a maximum
of four steps in our grievance process prior to cases being taken
to arbitration. Throughout the process, the University and the
Union will attempt to achieve a settlement that is mutually acceptable.
It is also important to note that the grievance procedure follows
strict timelines. According to our collective agreement, "the
University shall not be required to consider any grievance which
is not submitted within fifteen (15) working days after
the grievor became aware or ought reasonably to have become aware
of the circumstances giving rise to the grievance." In other
words, if you are considering filing a grievance, it is important
to speak with your Steward as soon as possible.
Not sure about your rights? Contact the Steward in your area or
call the Local 1998 Office at (416) 506-9090.
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