Labour Relations Board Directs Mediation in Centre of Hope Dispute

Strategic Insights -

The Alberta Labour Relations Board has intervened in a labour dispute between Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 2157 and Centre of Hope Non-Profit Society of Fort McMurray, directing the parties to engage in mediated bargaining after several failed negotiations. The board has also agreed to allow the parties to seek recommendations from the mediator if a collective agreement cannot be reached within the two-day bargaining period. This development marks a significant escalation in the dispute, which has been ongoing for several weeks.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Labour Relations Board has issued a Directive under section 92.2(6)(b) of the Labour Relations Code, requiring the Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 2157 and Centre of Hope Non-Profit Society of Fort McMurray to engage in mediated bargaining.
  • The parties have agreed to apply to the Director of Mediation Services for the appointment of a mediator, who will facilitate at least two days of bargaining.
  • If a collective agreement cannot be achieved following the two-day bargaining period, either party may request the mediator to provide recommendations on further steps conducive to productive bargaining.
  • The parties will have the option to seek enhanced mediation under Division 14.1 or continued formal mediation if necessary.
  • Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 2157, led by representative(s) not specified
  • Centre of Hope Non-Profit Society of Fort McMurray, represented by Jeremy D. Schick, Vice-Chair, Alberta Labour Relations Board

Statistics:

  • The dispute has been ongoing for several weeks, with multiple bargaining sessions held thus far.
  • The Labour Relations Board has certified the Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 2157 for a bargaining unit of "All Employees" of Centre of Hope Non-Profit Society of Fort McMurray (Certificate No. C2129-2023).
  • Two days of bargaining will be required, complete with the assistance of the mediator, if appointed by the Director of Mediation Services.

Sources:

  • Alberta Labour Relations Board (2024-03-20). CITATION: Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 2157 v Centre of Hope Non-Profit Society of Fort McMurray, 2024 ALRB 31.