Grievance Handling

One of CUASA's primary roles is enforcement of the provisions of the Collective Agreement. Any member of CUASA may (and should) seek advice from the Association on potential violations of the Collective Agreeement. More information on who to seek advice from can be found on the member advising page.

More often than not issues that arise are handled informally through discussions between CUASA and the employer. When we are unable to resolve an issue informally, CUASA has the ability to file a grievance using the process outlined in Article 30.5 of the Collective Agreement. If a satisfactory result is not reached through grievance, the Association can file for arbitration (a right provided under the Labour Relations Act). A move to arbitration can only be made with the consent of the Association's governing Council.

Remember: You have the right to (and are encouraged to have) union representation at meetings with the employer regarding your employment at Carleton.

The process has four stages:

• Stage 1: Informal resolution
• Stage 2: Submission of formal written grievance
• Stage 3: Appeal to the Grievance Sub-Committee
• Stage 4: Arbitration

Each of the stages is governed by specific timelines and so it is important to inform CUASA of an issue in a timely manner. For information on any of the phases, please contact CUASA and refer to the Collective Agreement.

Grievance files are kept in the CUASA offices and are maintained by the Executive Director. Though materials will be treated as confidential, information regarding the grievance may be made available to members of Council if it is determined that arbitration is necessary or is requested.