George Brown College Collective Agreement

George Brown College Collective Agreement: Understanding the Basics

George Brown College is one of the largest colleges in Canada, with over 25,000 students enrolled in over 160 programs. Like any large organization, the college relies on the collective agreement to manage its workforce. If you`re a George Brown College employee, it`s important to understand the basics of the collective agreement to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment.

What is a Collective Agreement?

A collective agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of employment for a group of workers represented by a union. It`s a binding contract between the employer and the union, and it covers issues such as wages, benefits, working conditions, job security, and dispute resolution. The collective agreement is negotiated between the union and the employer, typically every three to five years, and it`s subject to ratification by both parties.

Who is Covered by the George Brown College Collective Agreement?

The George Brown College collective agreement covers full-time and partial-load faculty, counsellors, librarians, and academic coordinators who are members of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU). The collective agreement does not cover managers, administrators, support staff, or part-time employees who are not members of the union.

What are the Key Provisions of the George Brown College Collective Agreement?

The George Brown College collective agreement covers a wide range of issues, but some of the key provisions include:

– Salary and benefits: The collective agreement sets out the salary scales for each job category, as well as benefits such as health and dental insurance, sick leave, and vacation time.

– Professional development: The agreement provides for professional development opportunities for faculty, including funding for conferences, workshops, and courses.

– Workload and job security: The collective agreement sets out the maximum workload for each job category, as well as provisions to protect job security and prevent layoffs.

– Grievance and arbitration: The agreement includes a grievance procedure to resolve disputes between the union and the employer, with the possibility of arbitration if the dispute cannot be resolved.

– Health and safety: The collective agreement includes provisions to ensure a safe and healthy work environment, including ergonomic and safety standards.

What Should You Do if You Think Your Rights are Being Violated?

If you believe that your rights under the collective agreement are being violated, you should first talk to your union representative to try to resolve the issue. If you`re not satisfied with the outcome, you can file a grievance under the procedure outlined in the collective agreement. The grievance process can be complex and time-consuming, but it`s an important tool to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment.

Conclusion

The George Brown College collective agreement is a critical document for employees represented by OPSEU. By understanding its provisions and your rights under the agreement, you can ensure fair treatment and protect your job security. If you have questions about the collective agreement or your rights as an employee, don`t hesitate to talk to your union representative or seek legal advice.