This timely session brings together seasoned experts to explore key issues and emerging trends in interest arbitration affecting fire services across Canada. Drawing on recent arbitration awards, panelists will share practical strategies and insights to help attendees navigate this complex and evolving area of labour relations.

Topics will include selecting an arbitrator, preparing for mediation and hearings, presenting effective briefs, and understanding various arbitration formats such as med-arb, final offer selection, and first contract arbitration. The session will also cover how arbitrators apply key criteria (i.e. replication, comparability, and demonstrated need) and how substantive and procedural issues are being addressed, from wage determination and inflation to estoppel and post-hearing settlements.

This program includes important updates from a previous session, but those who did not attend the earlier program will still find tremendous value in the content. The discussion will be accessible and informative for both new and returning participants.

With a focus on practical advice and interactive discussion, participants will receive a comprehensive reference package prepared by Lancaster House’s legal staff, including recent case summaries, legal overviews, and strategic guidance.

This session will take place via Zoom and feature a dynamic panel discussion with seasoned experts in fire sector interest arbitration. The panelists will share insights, strategies, and real-world examples drawn from recent arbitration awards across Canada.

Attendees can expect an engaging and interactive format, including a live Q&A where participants can raise questions and seek practical guidance on the issues that matter most in their workplaces.

Throughout the session, participants will refer to a comprehensive materials package, prepared by Lancaster House’s lawyers, which includes recent case summaries, legal commentary, and practical tools. This reference package is yours to keep and will serve as a valuable resource both during and after the program.

• HR directors, professionals and executives
• Fire chiefs and deputies
• Union officers and representatives
• Grievance advisors and committee members
• Labour lawyers/consultants
• Arbitrators, mediators and adjudicators

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand key principles and procedures involved in interest arbitration in the fire sector across Canada.
• Identify and evaluate different arbitration formats, including conventional arbitration, med-arb, final offer selection, and first contract arbitration.
• Apply key criteria used by arbitrators (such as replication, comparability, and demonstrated need) to issues like wages, benefits, and staffing.
• Prepare effectively for mediation meetings and arbitration hearings, including how to present briefs and supporting documentation.
• Recognize how recent awards are addressing substantive and procedural issues such as inflation, estoppel, post-hearing settlements, and admissibility of bargaining history.
• Assess the appropriateness and impact of various remedies, including interim awards, retroactivity, referrals for negotiation, and final orders.
• Use the provided reference materials to support future advocacy and decision-making in the interest arbitration process.

If you’re interested in this session, you may also want to attend Lancaster’s Grievance Arbitration in the Fire Sector: Essentials and Update, taking place. This companion panel offers a focused look at key developments and strategies in grievance arbitration in the fire sector. Bundle pricing is available for those who wish to attend both programs.