Chapter 5 : Employee Benefits

Work and Family Provisions in Canadian Collective Agreements

<< Joint Committies for Child Care | Table of Contents | Extent of Benefit Coverage >>

Although their importance tends to be somewhat downplayed when discussing family-friendly policies and practices - especially compared to such issues as family-related leave, child care, and the organization of working time - a number of employee benefits, particularly where extended to dependents, can help facilitate the balancing of work and family responsibilities while affording a measure of security and peace of mind.

Unions usually try to bargain for benefits as part of the overall package of remuneration for employees. Benefits have the advantage of providing employees, collectively, with access to important goods and/or services at a group discount rate, which is lower than the individual rate and often based on insurance principles. There may also be fiscal advantages where non-taxable benefits are provided. Of course, whether the costs are borne entirely or partly by the employer can make a difference regarding their attractiveness to employees.

Employers have often used benefit packages in order to be considered an "employer of choice" and as a tool to give themselves a competitive edge in attracting and retaining qualified employees. Benefits can be more cost-effective in that respect than raising wages and salaries.

Apart from relatively standard benefits, such as life insurance and extended health care, a number of other benefits may be particularly advantageous for working parents and/or employees who must provide care for other family members. Among these are various assistance programs, such as counselling services, substance abuse treatment, transportation for medical emergencies, and Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAPs). Many of these benefits, while supporting the physical and mental health of employees and their dependents, can also help deal with situations that could adversely affect family cohesion.

Many non-medical benefits that may aid employees with families can also be offered. These include moving and relocation assistance, legal services, discounts for family members, and tuition rebates and scholarships for dependents,. Even a seemingly simple matter such as having access to a telephone for personal calls while at work can be a relevant benefit for employees with family responsibilities.

<< Joint Committies for Child Care | Table of Contents | Extent of Benefit Coverage >>