NCJ Number
70704
Date Published
1980
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This Canadian paper describes the accomplishments and unmet goals of the Ontario Police Arbitration Commission, established by the Police Amendment Act of 1972 to resolve deadlocks in collective bargaining between the police and municipalities.
Abstract
The Ontario Police Arbitration Commission was mandated to appoint a single arbitrator, to eliminate delays in arbitration procedures, to introduce conciliation into the process, and to engage in and disseminate research which would promote a better understanding of the significance of current developments. Although no widespread dissatisfaction within the system has become apparent, the potential threat of police strikes is growing, as municipalities can no longer afford the rapid pay escalations of recent years. In order for a viable arbitration process to be maintained, senior management in police forces need to understand subordinates, needs and authorities must develop a greater understanding of the resolution process. Also, the commission should monitor changes in the process and keep its constituents informed of such changes. The substantial accomplishments of the Ontario Commission in carrying out its goals have been made in a period of relative calm in police labor relations, but considerable attention and effort will be required to retain the system's viability and to maintain sufficient flexibllity to adapt to changing circumstances. Nine footnotes are included. A discussion which followed the paper is appended.