Labour-Management Consultation provides an opportunity for union and management to engage in free, frank and meaningful dialogue on issues that con front or may confront either one or both parties. In many cases, the phrase Union – Management Consultation is used.
These Committees can discuss any matters except those which would lead to altering or changing the intent of a collective agreement. Subjects which can be discussed at these Committees are listed in your collective agreement. Typical subjects are: scheduling of annual leave, internal communications, rescheduling of shifts, working conditions, training programs, change in employer policies and programs, recreational programs, parking and flexible hours.
As a Local Officer, you will be required to attend and provide facts relating to particular problems or subjects discussed at a Labour-Management Consultation Committee meeting which affects all the membership of the Local. When a problem affects the membership in a more specific work area, you may request the steward of this area to attend the committee meeting as a resource person or as the union officer and representative of the membership concerned. The steward in the area usually is the best resource person to draw on in such cases.
Familiarize yourself with the internal operation of the committee at all levels: local, regional and national levels. As a Local, you should also be familiar with the members of the various committees on both the management and the union side.
The importance of informing the membership cannot be over-emphasized. This will enhance the credibility of the union and the effectiveness of the Local amongst the membership.
As a Local Officer you may or may not be involved in the initial setting up of the Labour Management Consultation Committee. In any case, periodic evaluations are necessary to keep up the effectiveness of the Local Committee.