On the afternoon of October 17, 2024 we received the “bottom line” decision from the Alberta Labour Relations Board.
Their directive is that NAIT and NASA are to split time in bargaining between evenings and weekends, while at the same time the decision is silent around issues of Article 12 and payment for daytime bargaining. That’s to be expected, as issues with collective agreement interpretation or implementation are typically resolved through the grievance process.
The board also did not give direction on the issue of observers and vacation, which may also be resolved through collective agreement processes.
The split is over 30 hours total to be bargained between now and December 15, half to be during working hours, and half outside of it, and then split half and half after that.
This gives both parties direction on scheduling, and NASA is reviewing options within this framework to bargain in ways that are financially responsible.
Expect another update once dates are scheduled with invites for observers to attend.
It is disappointing to see in this bottom line decision that NAIT’s complaint is considered to be “upheld”. At the same time it is clear that NAIT’s position for months that no bargaining at all should take place in the evenings was not something the labour board would mandate.
Having 50% of the time in negotiations outside of working hours is a victory that would not have happened if NASA had agreed with NAIT’s insistence of bargaining only when it was convenient for their management team during the day. This means that at least 50% of negotiations will be taking place at a time where more observers should be able to attend.
Your success in negotiations lies not with labour board processes, but in the strength that you show in standing with each other for an improved collective agreement.
Please reach out if you have any questions.
In solidarity,
Trevor Zimmerman