Problem
Chocoholics beware: Operations at a large manufacturer in Metro Vancouver could be affected by strike action this week. Union workers at Purdys Chocolatier delivered 72-hour strike notice on Sept. 8, meaning Unifor Local 2000 members could begin job action if an agreement isn't reached by midnight Tuesday. "Unifor members have helped make Purdy's (sic) a household name in British Columbia," said Gavin McGarrigle, Unifor Western Regional Director. "Workers at Purdy's (sic) deserve a fair contract that protects their wages from inflation during uncertain economic times." In addition to better wages, union members are also looking for seniority protections. The union said it's waiting for a fair wage offer during negotiations Monday. It notes it's "prepared to negotiate until the deadline to get a fair contract and avoid a disruption for customers." "Purdy's (sic) management have shown little interest in finding a fair solution," Brian Gibson, president of Local 2000, claimed. Unifor Local 2000 said it represents more than 200 factory and warehouse members in Vancouver, including workers at a factory along Kingsway and a warehouse on Chester Street. "At present, Purdys remains in negotiations with Unifor Local 2000 and has no comment while these discussions continue," Purdys said in a statement to CityNews. Source: Purdy's is a privately owned company operating in the province of British Columbia.
A. What is the bargaining structure for the negotiation between Unifor Local 2000 and Purdy's?
B. The relationship between Purdy's and Local 2000 has typically been very good. They only experience a few grievances each year and have never had to take an issue to arbitration. If you were to recommend an alternative third-party intervention to help resolve the bargaining dispute what would it be and why?
C. Imagine that the union issued their 72 hour strike notice to the employer on November 15th. Discuss the relative bargaining power of the union and the employer.