We’re arguing that an employer action constitutes a double penalty, and that violates the employee’s rights

Preparations are underway for the arbitration of a GSU member’s grievance in response to being penalized when 2021 annual wage increases were distributed by Viterra. The arbitration will take place on Nov. 16 and 17.

In this instance the grievor received a written reprimand for an alleged mistake in procedure in 2020. The reprimand was grieved but not taken to arbitration. However, the grievor was dinged again when their performance was evaluated for the purposes of determining the 2021 wage increase. The grievor and GSU are arguing that Viterra’s actions constitute a double penalty in violation of the employee’s rights.

As mentioned, this matter will be heard by the arbitrator on Nov. 16 and 17. Following the hearing the arbitrator will weigh the evidence and arguments in reaching a decision whether to uphold or reject the grievance. GSU general secretary Hugh Wagner will act as counsel for the union.

The arbitrator’s decision will be reported here when it is received.

If you need some advice about how to approach management with a problem, don’t hesitate to call your GSU staff rep. No problem is too small and sometimes a brief comment, email, or meeting is all that’s needed to address a situation. Call us when you think there is a problem to be fixed.