• The best interests of the people of the state are served by the prevention or prompt settlement of labor disputes

• The voluntary resolution of such disputes will tend to promote permanent industrial peace and the health, welfare, comfort and safety of the people of the state

• Representatives of employers and employees engaged in such disputes are encouraged voluntarily to submit them to the agency created by this article prior to engaging in a strike, lock-out or other cessation of employment and should participate fully and promptly in any meetings which may be arranged by the agency for the purpose of resolving the dispute

• The practice and procedure of collective bargaining are encouraged

• Employees are to be protected in the exercise of full freedom of association, self-organization and designation of representatives of their own choosing for the purposes of collective bargaining, or other mutual aid and protection, free from the interference, restraint or coercion of their employer.