Conciliation is the process of intervention in collective bargaining by a neutral third party knowledgeable in effective negotiation procedures. This third party is called a “Conciliation Officer”. The Conciliation Officer helps employers and unions reach a collective agreement, but does not have the authority to impose binding decisions.
Some parties successfully negotiate collective agreements without the use of a Conciliation Officer, however, provincial labour statutes recognize that this is not always possible. Consequently, the Department of Labour and Advanced Education provides assistance through the Conciliation process.
Nova Scotia labour statutes require parties to meet with a Conciliation Officer to try and resolve a potential dispute before they can legally strike or lockout.
Request for Conciliation Services
Dispute Resolution and Program Request Form
For questions or additional information, please contact Conciliation and Mediation Services.
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