This paper examines the issue of time delays in grievance arbitration. Previous studies, as well as new data from the Province of Alberta, show that delays are increasing and that the average grievance takes approximately one year from its filing to its resolution by an arbitrator. Factors associated with delay include use of three person boards (versus sole arbitrators), sector, and type of issue. A conclusing section discusses the implications of these findings.
The Charter has had the effect of casting a long shadow of uncertainty over our established industrial relations institutions. Nowhere is this more true than in the area of grievance arbitration. In this paper, the author deals with the issues at stake, and the reasons why bot h arbitrators and judges are having such difficulty in deciding upon the extent to which grievance arbitration should be influenced by the Charter.
Time Delays in Grievance Arbitration
