In a grievance arbitration involving allegations of discrimination and sexual harassment, the union filed particulars naming two members of management.
The two individuals attended the hearing and requested third party status to defend their reputations, as the employer indicated it would not necessarily represent their interests.
The union opposed the request.
The Crown Employees Grievance Settlement Board granted the individuals third party status, finding that the potential for permanent damage to their reputations and standing in the community constituted a vital, direct, and compelling interest that warranted an exception to the general rule against granting third party status in rights arbitrations.
A partial dissent would have denied third party status.
