Board Offers New Way to Settle Disputes

Voluntary Planning will launch a new way to settle workplace grievances with the introduction of Non-binding Arbitration at a presentation Tuesday, Sept. 14, at CKF Inc. in Hantsport.

This new approach in labour-management relations uses a two-person panel to examine disputes involving the interpretation of collective agreement clauses. Panelists hear arguments from both sides and then make a decision that reflects the likely outcome if the parties were to continue to traditional arbitration. As the name suggests, the decision is non-binding. A hearing -- from case presentation to decision -- takes about two hours.

"Non-binding Arbitration gives both union and management the opportunity to hear an independent third party's opinion that can penetrate the sometimes narrow, fixed positions held by either party," said Gene Marchand, superintendent of human resources for Stora Enso Magazine Paper. "The process provides for a sober second thought, sometimes preventing unnecessary, costly arbitration."

Said Larry Wark of the Canadian Auto Workers: "Non-binding Arbitration works. A key to its success can be attributed to the experience and objectiveness of its Panelists."

Management and labour leaders, in association with Voluntary Planning, initiated Non-binding Arbitration as a pilot project in 1994. It was designed to help small bargaining units struggling with long delays and costly labour hearings.

The process has gained popularity with unions and employers. During the pilot-project stage, nearly 100 hearings took place.

Under Non-binding Arbitration, the two sides in the dispute each pay $250 to have the case heard. Panelists, experienced in the labour relations field, are selected from a rotation list held by Voluntary Planning. Each panel has one labour and one management representative.

The Department of Labour has recognized the format as an effective alternate dispute resolution model.

The launch Tuesday before management and labour leaders will take place at CKF Inc., 48 Prince St., starting at noon.

Voluntary Planning is an independent business and labour partnership that acts as an advisory body to the provincial government. It involves the private sector in planning for sustainable economic development and has been operating for more than 35 years.

NOTE TO EDITORS: A feature article on Non-binding Arbitration will follow. Media are welcome to attend the official launch Tuesday.