Back to: Introduction to the Labour Relations Act (LRA)
5.2 Rights and Responsibilities
Workplace forums have specific rights and responsibilities that enable them to function effectively and represent employees’ interests.
The primary right of a workplace forum is to be consulted by the employer on a range of issues affecting the workplace. These issues include proposals for restructuring, changes in work procedures, product development plans, mergers and acquisitions, and any other matter that may significantly affect employees’ interests.
Consultation means that the employer must provide the forum with relevant information and allow the forum to express its views and make recommendations before any final decision is made. This process ensures that employees have a voice in the decision-making process and that their concerns are considered.
In addition to consultation, workplace forums have the right to joint decision-making with the employer on specific matters. These matters include disciplinary codes and procedures, workplace rules, and measures designed to protect and promote the health and safety of employees. Joint decision-making means that the employer and the forum must reach an agreement before any changes can be implemented.
The Labour Relations Act also imposes certain responsibilities on workplace forums. These include representing the interests of all employees in the workplace, promoting cooperation and mutual respect between employees and employers, and ensuring that the forum operates in a fair and transparent manner.
Forum members must act in good faith, respect confidentiality, and avoid any conduct that could undermine the forum’s effectiveness or the employer’s operations. This helps to maintain a positive and productive working relationship between the forum and the employer.