The union and the employer filed cross-complaints alleging failure to bargain in good faith.
At the hearing, the Board noted that the negotiations were characterized by personal conflict unrelated to the bargaining issues, and that proceeding with a hearing would likely exacerbate the situation.
Exercising its discretion under section 96(4) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995, the Board declined to inquire into the complaints at this time, finding it would serve no labour relations purpose.
The Board adjourned the hearings and directed the parties to meet within three weeks to bargain in good faith and make every reasonable effort to conclude a collective agreement.
