A grievance is a dispute or disagreement regarding the interpretation, application, administration or violation of your collective bargaining agreement. It may also be used if the company violates labour laws or issues unfair discipline to our members. It allows all members to address problems and complaints in a formal and legally binding manner.

“Work Now, Grieve Later”

Even if there are grounds for a grievance, an employee cannot refuse to follow a direct order from the management. Refusal to follow an order from management may be considered insubordination and could risk discipline or termination of employment.

However, there are some limited exceptions to the rule “work now, grieve later”.

There are situations where continuing to work could have severe consequences, such as health and safety concerns, or being asked to perform an illegal act.

Don’t grieve too late! Follow the steps and time limits of your grievance procedure. Refer to your Collective Agreement for more information on the Grievance and Arbitration Process.