The foundation of good labour relations lies in clear communication, and strong yet respectful management. Fasken Labour, Employment & Human Rights (LEHR) lawyers have a long history of providing advice to and representing employers with unionized workers with respect to all their labour needs. In many cases, our client relationships date back decades, with clients placing great trust in our team to provide strategic guidance and representation.
In labour relations matters, our team supports employers in the context of organizing campaigns and assists with applications for certification, decertification, related employer/successorship and unfair labour practice complaints before Canadian provincial labour boards, the Canada Industrial Relations Board, and South Africa’s Labour Appeal Court. If injunctions are necessary or a decision needs to be judicially reviewed, we will represent your company’s interests in court. We also help with grievance arbitrations, including with policy and interpretation grievances, and in discipline/discharge, work assignment and contracting out cases.
When collective agreements need to be negotiated or renegotiated, we use a holistic approach to craft and implement the appropriate action plan to assist you to meet your business needs. This may include preparing your proposals, reviewing and critiquing union demands and acting as spokesperson at the bargaining table. In addition, we manage media relations and communications with employees, train client negotiation teams for bargaining, and provide guidance in contract administration once an agreement has been reached.
Our clients include public institutions such as hospitals, school boards and universities and colleges, Crown corporations, rail, automotive and aviation companies, multinational corporations, among others.
As one of the largest labour, employment and human rights practices in Canada, we can address your labour needs across the country in a coordinated manner that is consistent, concise, and cost-effective.
To learn more about how we can assist you with labour relations and collective bargaining needs, subscribe to our HR Space bulletin. You can also browse some of our recent experience or contact any of our lawyers.
