Negotiation Process and Matters

The Act respecting the process of negotiation of the collective agreements in the public and parapublic sectors (CQLR, chapter R-8.2) provides that negotiations be conducted at two levels: provincial and local. Matters discussed at the provincial level are grouped into two categories:

• Provincial intersectorial matters
• Provincial sectorial matters

• Salaries
• Pension plans
• Group insurance plans
• Parental rights
• Regional disparities
• Paid leaves

These matters include elements that are interconnected and common to the public and parapublic sectors and are the subject of negotiation between the Conseil du trésor and the central union bodies. Texts of agreements concluded at the intersectorial level (also known as the Central Table) are drafted at the sectorial negotiation tables (CPNCA) to reflect the specifications of each group.

• Union prerogatives
• Organization of workload
• Movement of personnel
• Conditions of employment
• Grievances and arbitration
• And others

The CPNCA is responsible for negotiating these matters. The CPNCA negotiating teams negotiate with negotiating teams representing unions. In general, management bargaining mandates are prepared by the CPNCA and discussed by the Quebec English School Boards Association (QESBA) and the Ministère de l’Éducation (ME) before being submitted to the Conseil du trésor for approval.

• Distribution of duties and responsibilities among the teachers of a school
• Assignment and transfer procedures
• Participation mechanisms
• And others

These matters fall under the jurisdiction of each school board and are negotiated directly with the local union.

Teaching Staff

• Schedule A of the Act respecting the process of negotiation of the collective agreements in the public and parapublic sectors (CQLR, chapter R-8.2) lists 28 matters which may be negotiated at the local or regional level and allows that matters may be added at the local or regional level, if the parties at the provincial level so agree.

Professional and Support Staff

• The Act does not provide a predetermined list of those matters which may be negotiated at the local level. However, the parties at the provincial level may agree to draw up such a list.