Abstract

The note describes the workplace dispute resolution structures in Ontario, Canada, with an account of the role of arbitration in workplace dispute settlement. The focus is on the response of arbitrators, and union and employer counsel to the Covid-19 pandemic. This includes a discussion of procedural developments for the hearing of cases and how some of the substantive pandemic issues have been dealt with. Videoconferencing emerged as a significant method of arbitration. Its long-term impact is discussed, with an assessment of the pros and cons of arbitrations being conducted virtually, and a summary of good practices in videoconference hearings.