Isabelle: “Today let’s talk about the first communication with the newly established union.”

Justin: “How does the initial conversation with the union begin?”

Isabelle: “Once the union is formed, they will send an official letter to start collective bargaining. They will first seek to establish ground rules.”

Justin: “What do those ground rules entail, and what should the company consider?”

Isabelle: “They usually cover when and where to negotiate. The union may want to have negotiations on the company premises during work hours to assert their influence.”

Justin: “I see. So, it would be important for the company to weigh the implications carefully before agreeing to the union’s request. What happens after the ground rules are addressed?”

Isabelle: “Next, the union will want to establish ‘Priority Negotiation Clauses,’ which generally includes time-off workers, check-offs, and allocating union office space.”

Justin: “What are time-off workers and check-offs?”

Isabelle: “Time-off workers are employees allowed to work on union affairs during normal work hours, while still being paid. Check-offs are arrangements for union fees to be automatically deducted before salaries are paid.

Justin: “Does the company have to accept the union’s suggestion for these?”

Isabelle: “No, the company should also carefully consider these clauses as well to preserve their bargaining leverage for later negotiations.”