Grievances
The grievance process is a formal mechanism for resolving disputes related to the interpretation, application, or alleged violation of the DFA Collective Agreement.
Most workplace concerns can be resolved through discussion. However, when an issue cannot be resolved informally, the Collective Agreement provides a structured process for addressing the matter.
The Dalhousie Faculty Association supports members throughout the grievance process and represents members when formal grievances are filed.
What Is a Grievance?
A grievance is a dispute related to the interpretation, application, administration, or alleged violation of the Collective Agreement.
Examples of issues that may lead to a grievance include:
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Workload concerns
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Salary or compensation disputes
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Contract interpretation
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Procedural issues related to appointments or promotion
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Other matters covered by the Collective Agreement
Not every workplace concern becomes a grievance. The DFA can help determine whether a situation should proceed through the grievance process.
How the Grievance Process Works
Step 1: Informal Discussion
Many issues are resolved through discussion with the appropriate administrator, such as a department chair, head, or dean.
Members are encouraged to contact the DFA early for advice before raising concerns formally.
Step 2: Formal Grievance
If a concern cannot be resolved informally, the DFA may file a formal written grievance with the university on behalf of the member.
The grievance outlines the issue and the relevant provisions of the Collective Agreement.
Step 3: Review and Meetings
Representatives from the DFA and the university meet to review the grievance and attempt to reach a resolution.
This stage may involve discussions, documentation review, or additional clarification.
Step 4: Arbitration
If the grievance cannot be resolved through discussion, it may proceed to arbitration before an independent arbitrator.
The arbitrator reviews the case and issues a decision that is final and binding on both parties.
When Should I Contact the DFA?
Members are encouraged to contact the DFA as early as possible if they believe an issue may involve the Collective Agreement.
Early consultation helps ensure that:
- Deadlines in the grievance procedure are met
- Members understand their options
Issues can sometimes be resolved before becoming formal grievances.
If you believe the Collective Agreement may have been violated, or if you have questions about your rights under the agreement, please contact the DFA for guidance using the email or form below.
The DFA can help assess the situation and advise on the appropriate next steps.
DFA Grievance Committee
The DFA's Grievance Committee is a standing committee of the DFA established to assist members of the Bargaining Unit who allege violations of the Collective Agreement, and may pursue grievances on behalf of the Association. The Grievance Committee also assists DFA members who are not members of the Bargaining Unit, with the terms and conditions of their employment including alleged violations of the Senate Regulations Concerning Appointments, Promotion and Tenure.
Click here for the committee's Terms of Reference.
Chair
- Dominic Silvio, Killam Memorial Library
Members
- Patricia Cove, Business & Social Sciences
- Patti Doyle-Bedwell, Open Learning & Career Development
- David Evans, English
- Katherine Fierlbeck, Political Science
- Iona Green, Business & Social Sciences
- Kate Grosweiner, Physiotherapy
- Tim Juckes, Psychology & Neuroscience
- Derek Kimmerly, Health & Human Performance
- Michel Ladouceur, Health & Human Performance
- Erin MacPherson, MacRae Library
- Matt Numer, Health & Human Performance
- David Westwood, Health & Human Performance
- Marc Whalen, Chemistry
- Scott White, Plant, Food and Environmental Science
- Julia M. Wright, English
- Jack Brown, DFA Professional Officer
- Travis Perry, DFA Membership Services Officer
All correspondence to the DFA Grievance Committee should be directed to the DFA Office at dfa@dal.ca