The FFAW says the arbitrator has yet to determine whether or not the union will have to pay damages in relation to a recent grievance decision made.
The Association of Seafood Producers filed a grievance against the FFAW as a result of last year’s tie-up during the crab fishing season.
ASP Executive Director Jeff Loder says they felt the circumstances surrounding last year’s delay in the crab fishery warranted the grievance.
ASP Executive Director Jeff Loder
“We felt that was an inappropriate decision by the union given the obvious serious consequences, and negative economic implications of the season not starting on time. We used our rights under the statutory framework and the Fisheries Industry Collective Bargaining Act and the Master Collective Agreement to launch a grievance.”
FFAW President Greg Pretty says he doesn’t think they’re going to appeal the arbitrator’s decision on the cessation of business with ASP “because we have a right to represent workers and advocate on their behalf.”
However, the second step involves the arbitrator determining whether or not the union is responsible, whether or not there are causation or mitigation issues and whether money needs to be paid out.
That, says Pretty, is something the union is ready to challenge.
He says they have to determine whether a loss occurred. The union will subpoena records from the crab companies over a five-year period including production figures and sales. “So it’s not cut-and-dry,” says Pretty.
