How It Works

Steps to Unionization

Form a Union Committee & Build a Majority

Join CMHC’s union committee, speak to your coworkers, majority of workers must sign (confidential) union cards.

Step 1

Union Applies for Certification at the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB)

The union collects and submits cards as part of a democratic application process to certify the appropriate bargaining unit.

Step 2

Employer Responds to Union and Labour Board

The employer discloses the list of employees to the union and the CIRB. A conversation between the employees and the employer begins.

Step 3

Majority of Cards Signed

If at least 35 per cent of the employees sign membership cards, the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) will hold a vote to see if employees want a union. If more than 50 per cent of the employees sign membership cards, the CIRB can also certify the union without holding a vote.

Step 4

Build Your Local Union!

Elect executive officers, elect a bargaining committee, negotiate your first collective agreement.