Regulating and Resolving Public Sector Disputes in Canada

This article discusses three broad approaches that have been adopted for the regulation and resolution of public sector strikes in Canada and provides a review of empirical and other research findings on public sector disputes procedures. This is followed by an assessment of the effectiveness of these approaches based on their ability to: (1) provide for the continuance of essential services; (2) achieve timely settlements (e.g. collective bargaining efficiency); (3) foster voluntary and peaceful settlements; and (4) promote acceptable outcomes. The article concludes that the reality is public sector strikes are inevitable, strike bans do not eliminate strikes and no dispute resolution model is totally effective.