The Union-Management Framework

Flashcards based on the key concepts from the lecture notes on union-management relations.

What is a union?

An organization with the legal authority to represent workers, negotiate employment terms, and administer the collective agreement.

What are the major reasons why employees join unions?

Job dissatisfaction, perceived benefits of union representation, and peer pressure.

What is a collective agreement?

A contract negotiated between the union and employer outlining terms and conditions of employment.

What are common reasons employees might choose not to join a union?

Belief that union membership may harm promotion chances, seen as an additional 'boss,' costs of dues, and employer policies being perceived as fair.

What is 'Business Unionism'?

The practice of unions seeking to improve wages, hours, and working conditions in a businesslike manner.

What is the role of Local Unions?

They provide the members, revenue, and power of the union movement.

What is the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC)?

An organization representing many unions in Canada, focusing on public policy influence, ethics enforcement, and member services.

What is mutual gains bargaining?

An approach that moves away from traditional adversarial negotiation towards joint problem-solving.

What constitutes unfair labour practices on behalf of management?

Interfering with union formation, coercive tactics, or failing to represent employees fairly.

What are the steps in negotiating a collective agreement?

Preparing for negotiations, negotiating with the union, and approving the proposed agreement.