Grievance Settlement Board Decision: Ontario Public Service Employees Union vs. The Crown in Right of Ontario

The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) and The Crown in Right of Ontario, represented by the Ministry of the Solicitor General, have reached a milestone in their grievance case. After a conference call on May 23, 2025, Arbitrator Bram Herlich issued a decision that outlines the next steps in the litigation process. The decision, made public on May 26, 2025, addresses procedural issues and sets deadlines for further hearing dates and document exchange.

Key Takeaways:

• The Union, represented by Behzad Akhkend, will provide a statement of particulars and relevant documentation to the Employer, The Crown in Right of Ontario, on or before March 17, 2026.
• The Employer has reserved the right to argue that the grievance should be dismissed without a hearing if the Union misses the scheduled deadlines.
• Further hearing dates have been scheduled for April 14, July 14, and 16, 2026.
• The Union is directed to advise the Employer of any issues it may encounter in meeting the deadlines, including non-availability or non-responsiveness on the part of the Grievor.
• The Employer will respond to any production request from the Union by April 14, 2026.
• The Arbitrator remains seized to hear and determine any motion from the Employer, should it become necessary.

Statistics:

• Number of hearing dates scheduled: 3 (April 14, July 14, and 16, 2026)
• Deadline for Union to provide statement of particulars: March 17, 2026
• Date of conference call: May 23, 2025
• Date of Arbitrator's decision: May 26, 2025

Sources:

• "IN THE MATTER OF AN ARBITRATION Under THE CROWN EMPLOYEES COLLECTIVE BARGAINING ACT" (2025-05-26)
• Decision of Arbitrator Bram Herlich (May 26, 2025)
• The Crown Employees Collective Bargaining Act (as cited in the decision)
• Ontario Public Service Employees Union (as cited in the decision)
• Ministry of the Solicitor General (as cited in the decision)