Workforce Relations

Collective Bargaining

Overview

Collective bargaining is the process by which a collective agreement is negotiated. Bargaining involves a series of meetings between the union and the employer where proposed changes to the collective agreement are discussed. If both parties agree, the union will present the proposed agreement to their members (the employees) for ratification (to vote to accept the proposed agreement or not). If the terms are accepted, an agreement is reached.

How Employee & Labour Relations Assists

The Employee & Labour Relations Officers represent the employer at bargaining sessions and prepare and present employer proposals and review the proposals presented by the union. Once a new or renewed agreement has been finalized and agreed to by the parties, Workforce Relations is also responsible for ensuring the agreement is implemented, including any agreed to changes to employee terms and conditions.

Policy/Legislation (Authority)

The Labour Relations Act

Top Manitoba Public Service Employee Questions

1. The term of the collective agreement has ended, and the employer and union continue to bargain. What happens to employee rights until a new agreement is reached? 2. How long does it take to negotiate a collective agreement? 3. What does a typical collective bargaining process look like?

Additional Resources and Training

Manitoba public service supervisors/managers and human resource practitioners looking to better understand the roles and responsibilities of various parties under a collective agreement may register for the course, Management of the Collective Agreement, Discipline, and Performance Management, through Learning and Development (L&D Access Required).

Contact Information

If you cannot find what you are seeking, feel free to contact a member of the Workforce Relations team by clicking here