Description

During the workshop, participants will learn foundational labour relations principles and practices as they apply to the post-secondary sector. Through this workshop, participants will gain an understanding of the legal framework governing labour relations, explore the interplay between legislation and collective agreements, and examine key labour relations concepts such as management rights, union duties, the roles and responsibilities of union and management, discipline, and grievances. The workshop provides participants with opportunities to apply their knowledge and understanding of labour relations principles directly through group work and real-life examples. 

WORKSHOP GOALS 

Participants will gain a foundational understanding of the union/management relationship, the duties of each party, and the legal concepts that govern collective bargaining and contract administration. 

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

• Describe the legal framework behind labour relations. 
• Explain and apply foundational labour relations principles to the post-secondary sector. 
• Explain the interplay of legislation and collective agreements. 
• Describe key labour relations concepts:
  • Management rights 
  • Union duties
  • Roles and responsibilities of the union and management 
  • The four employer duties 
  • The grievance procedure 
  • Fundamentals of progressive discipline

Facilitator(s): 

Sara Grujin has been Legal Counsel at PSEA since May 2025. Before joining PSEA, Sara was an Associate Labour Lawyer at Harris & Co LLP and served as a Labour Relations Lawyer at the Community Social Services Employers’ Association. In both roles, Sara effectively advised clients across various sectors on complex labour and human rights matters.

Her approach is client-focused and collaborative, yet she remains decisive and assertive when addressing high-stakes labour disputes. She prides herself on thorough analysis and creative problem-solving, striving to efficiently resolve conflicts while maintaining consistent labour relations.