Union-Management Consultation Committee (UMCC)

Consultation is used to develop and maintain sound and harmonious labour-management relations. It is a means of seeking and exchanging information, advice and opinions on workplace issues between labour and management. It is a joint process of gathering and providing information, and obtaining input from those involved in anticipated changes; development of policies, procedures, and methods; conditions of employment; and other matters of interest. Effective consultation is about building relationships; it implies a share responsibility for ownership of the process and the outcome.

Purpose:

  1. The purpose of Union-Management Consultation Committee (UMCC) is to facilitate communication on issues relevant to the workplace.

  2. UMCC provides a forum where management and employee representatives meet to exchange information on policy, procedures, conditions of employment and other matters of interest to the parties, in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust.

  3. They provide a forum for and not limited to:

    • Union representatives to communicate their views on subjects of importance to the membership;

    • Management to make known its plans regarding the subject under discussion, the reasons for taking such action and the expected results;

    • discussing such items as proposed changes in conditions and programs; physical working conditions; equipment, tools and uniforms; training programs;

    • discuss and address specific impacts of regional and national issues and events on Centre employees;

    • discuss proposals for joint action to address specific issues;

    • alleviating fears and prejudices created by workplace rumours.

  4. To foster effective two-way communication and mutual understanding.

  5. UMCC do not limit management's authority, nor do they interfere with a union's rights as established by legislation or collective agreements. While consultation does not involve mutual decision-making or formal agreement, it does imply that management should take into account the views and suggestions advanced by union representatives.

Source: Agriculture Union KeyInfo