Overview
Grievance mediation is an informal, voluntary process to help deal with grievances that arise between a union and employer which may otherwise proceed to grievance arbitration. A neutral mediator helps the parties find a solution that resolves the issue faster and with less cost.
Mediation is different from arbitration because a mediator does not decide a dispute. An arbitrator functions more like a judge, deciding the outcome of a dispute based on evidence and law.
The Grievance Mediation Program provides a list of independent grievance mediators who have the skills and knowledge to help the parties through the mediation process.
Mediation process
Mediation is a proven method of problem solving with a very high success rate. Grievance mediation is early intervention that is cost effective, timely and informal. The parties are always in control of the outcome.
Grievance mediation is voluntary and both parties share the costs of mediation. Even when both parties agree to mediation, sometimes it can be challenging to find and agree upon a grievance mediator. If the parties cannot agree on a mediator, the Government of Alberta's Mediation Services can provide assistance.
The Grievance Mediation Program only administers the list of approved mediators and does not make appointments. When requested, Mediation Services can answer questions and help with contacts.
How mediation works
Once the grievance mediator is selected by the parties, they discuss arrangements and schedule a date for grievance mediation. In most cases, the grievance mediation could take less than a day.
The mediator works with representatives of the union and employer and the grievor to create a safe problem-solving environment. The mediator is responsible for creating the conditions in which different interests and concerns can be raised, constructive ideas generated and positive solutions found. This helps to preserve and improve the relationship and reach a collaborative solution.
The mediation deals with the issue away from the adversarial atmosphere of negotiations and outside a legal framework. All parties are encouraged to speak freely to reach a compromise.
At the end of mediation, if a settlement has been reached, the parties agree the mediated settlement is binding. Enforcing the settlement is the responsibility of the parties.
Mediation fees
Grievance mediation is far more cost effective than the lengthy process of proceeding to grievance arbitration. Both parties share the costs of mediation and should be aware of the fees before they engage the mediator and that each mediator may have different fees.
The Alberta government does not regulate the fees charged nor does it resolve disputes over fees.
Grievance Mediation Roster
The following list provides contact information and biographies of individuals who are experienced in labour relations and have expressed an interest in acting as Grievance Mediators. The list is provided for your convenience and is not part of any formal selection process.
Grievance mediator portal
Go to the Mediation Services Portal to find a practitioner.
Contact
Connect with Mediation Services:
Phone: 780-427-8301
Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
Email: [email protected]