The role of the [British Columbia] Labour Board as an alternative to arbitration

The British Columbia Labour Code requires collective bargaining agreements to include arbitration of unresolved grievances, both discharge and discipline (for “just and reasonable cause” only), and problems related to technological change. Separately, Section 96 of the Labour Code provides an alternative to arbitration, under which either party may apply to the British Columbia Labour Relations Board for assistance in resolving a “difference” (grievance). (The author is Chairman of that Board.) The Board may attempt resolution or, in some instances, return the matter to the parties for arbitration.