Library of Parliament Bargaining Update
November 4, 2011
After the exchange of proposals in late August, the parties reconvened at the bargaining table on October 4-6 and 18-20. Things were progressing smoothly and we were cautiously optimistic that a settlement would be reached at the table. The Employer made it clear that a settlement had to include the loss of accumulation of severance pay for voluntary departures (i.e. resignation and retirement). We made it clear that we needed fair value in exchange and a settlement had to include a resolution to all of our issues regarding pay. We had very productive discussions and we left on October 20th with the feeling that when there’s a will, there’s a way. We were informed on October 31st that despite their best efforts the Library of Parliament is unable at this time to meet our demands. We have agreed to break off the talks for now and reconvene in the New Year. We would have preferred to meet before then, but both parties were unable to find mutually acceptable dates. We remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached, however the team will proceed to arbitration, if needed, to let a neutral third party consider our arguments regarding pay and render a binding decision.
November 4, 2011
After the exchange of proposals in late August, the parties reconvened at the bargaining table on October 4-6 and 18-20. Things were progressing smoothly and we were cautiously optimistic that a settlement would be reached at the table. The Employer made it clear that a settlement had to include the loss of accumulation of severance pay for voluntary departures (i.e. resignation and retirement). We made it clear that we needed fair value in exchange and a settlement had to include a resolution to all of our issues regarding pay. We had very productive discussions and we left on October 20th with the feeling that when there’s a will, there’s a way. We were informed on October 31st that despite their best efforts the Library of Parliament is unable at this time to meet our demands. We have agreed to break off the talks for now and reconvene in the New Year. We would have preferred to meet before then, but both parties were unable to find mutually acceptable dates. We remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached, however the team will proceed to arbitration, if needed, to let a neutral third party consider our arguments regarding pay and render a binding decision.