30 March 2005

Labour board to mediate unfair practice complaints

Canadian Media Guild | TNG Canada Local 30213

The Canada Industrial Relations Board has agreed to hold a mediation meeting on Monday to address the unfair practice complaints filed by the Canadian Media Guild against the CBC in late 2004 and early 2005.

Two weeks ago, the Guild sent a letter to board chair Warren Edmondson urging action on the file.

The complaints stem from CBC interference with the Guild's ability to represent members, both collectively and individually. For example, the CBC has been negotiating separation packages directly with individual members, without informing the Guild. This practice lends itself to intimidation and coercion of employees and, because the Guild is not involved, can mean that members are denied their full rights under the collective agreement.

The Guild tried to resolve the issues with the CBC before resorting to legal action, but got nowhere. The CBC’s attitude today is the same as it was a decade ago when it was found guilty of breaking Canadian labour law for similar inappropriate behaviours.

The April 4 mediation meeting will precede seven straight weeks of negotiations toward a new collective agreement. The Guild hopes the meeting will initiate more positive labour relations at the CBC and enable both sides to work toward a fair deal.

(This story first appeared on the Canadian Media Guild web site.)