It’s called ‘interest arbitration.’ And it’s costing taxpayers millions.

Because ‘emergency workers’ (police, fire and ambulance) are deemed essential, municipal employees in these categories do not have the right to strike. In return, they have the right to go to the province and ask for binding arbitration if local negotiations fail. Historically, wage and benefit awards under this ‘interest arbitration’ process are much higher than contracts negotiated with other local unions.

Recently, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) wrote the province expressing concern about this program and asking for major reforms. At its meeting last week, the FCC Board of Directors voted unanimously to add its signature to the letter.

To see the OCC letter, please click HERE.