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LOCAL LIAISON COMMITTEE; BEST PRACTICES

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Whereas the parties to the Agreement recognize and declare that providing quality education is a mutual aim, that the character of such education depends among other things upon the quality and morale of the teachers, that teachers are particularly qualified to formulate recommendations on educational programs, that it is the wish of the parties to establish and maintain harmonious relations; therefore, the following are jointly recommended by the Employer and the New Brunswick Teachersʼ Federation as best practices to promote the effective operation of the local liaison committees pursuant to Article 15 of the Collective Agreement:

* The Committee shall meet no less that two (2) times per year, should either party request such meetings.

* The meetings should be held at the time and date mutually agreed to by the parties well in advance.

* All committee members should make every reasonable effort to attend the meetings. Either party may appoint a substitute representative in the event of the absence of a committee member.

* The content of the meetings and any specific terms of reference governing the conduct and the scope of the committee will be determined locally.

* The principal agenda items should be agreed to in advance to provide each side sufficient time to engage in a meaningful dialogue on the issues in question. Either side may submit agenda items for discussion at the meeting

* The committee should appoint a secretary who would have the responsibility of preparing the minutes from the meeting. The minutes should be circulated to the committee members, prior to its next meeting. The committee should focus its discussion on broad issues of interest and concern, as opposed to very unique issues related to individual teachers. Such exceptional matters could be addressed in another venue.

* The items for discussion at the meeting should address priority issues.

* It may be appropriate, on occasion, for the parties to invite someone other than a committee member, who may possess a particular expertise on a given agenda item.

* Each side should make every reasonable effort to follow up in a timely fashion on issues discussed at the local liaison committee. Decisions, regarding matters which have been resolved should be implemented as quickly as possible. Issues which have been deferred, should be fully explored in the interim period, to promote a meaningful dialogue between the parties at the next meeting.

* It is in the best interest of both sides to create an environment of open communication and cooperation at the local level. Such a climate promotes improved employee-employer relations.

* The Local Liaison Committee does not have the power to modify the Collective Agreement.

* The Local Liaison Committee is but one forum for exchanging information and discussing concerns at the local level. Other means of communication and consultation should be considered when appropriate.

These guidelines were drafted and agreed to by both the Employer and the New Brunswick Teachersʼ Federation on March 31, 2006.

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