If a grievance is appropriate in your circumstance
A grievance may be filed in relation to a violation of the Collective Agreement. This occurs when your employer doesn’t follow the terms of your union contract — for example, denying overtime pay, discrimination or denying vacation requests.
Types of grievances
The role of a Steward in resolving workplace issues
The Steward is typically a first point of contact for members raising concerns in the workplace. The Steward is a volunteer who is a fellow member. They have received training on how to interpret and apply the collective agreement and advocate for our members rights in the workplace.
Responsibilities include:
Liaising with the employer
Exploring potential informal resolutions.
Providing members with relevant resources
Offering advice on available options.
Filing + presenting grievances when required
Ensuring collective agreement procedures are followed.
Providing general support and guidance
Proactively raising workplace issues
Steps in the grievance process
Filing a grievance follows a clear path. From speaking with a steward to submitting documents, receiving an employer response, and deciding on next steps – this process helps ensure your concerns are heard and addressed fairly.
They can help determine if your case necessitates a grievance.
If eligible, the steward will guide you through the grievance filing process.
The employer will respond in writing to the concerns that you raised in your grievance.
Your case may be resolved, escalated to the next stage of the grievance procedure, be referred to adjudication (if applicable), or pursued through alternative resolution methods.
What to prepare to discuss with your PIPSC representative
Have your documents ready to help stewards assess your case and prepare the grievance.
To help PIPSC support your case, try to gather information relevant to your concern, which could include:
- your letter of offer
- job posting/job description
- pay stubs or other records from the pay center
- correspondence (emails and letters) with your employer
- meeting notes or journal entries detailing relevant events
- any internal complaints or reports you’ve submitted
- witness contact info
Looking to connect with a steward?
Sign in to access the full Steward Directory and connect with a trusted steward ready to support you.
PIPSC staff support: LROs and EROs
Labour Relations Officers and Employment Relations Officers are available for members whose workplace issues have been escalated. They are HR experts, handle member concerns and grievances, and can represent members at adjudication. If your case requires an LRO or ERO, one will be assigned to you by your regional office.
If your case is referred to an ERO/LRO, here’s how your case moves forward
Once your case is submitted, PIPSC reviews it, assigns it to the right specialist, and keeps you informed at every step.
Grievance support and resources
Have a question or concern about your rights within the workplace?