Negotiation Update - September 2, 2014

The University met with the Union and a provincially appointed Conciliator on August 26 2014.  Our discussions included the university’s proposed wage increase.  The main issue that remains outstanding is finding a pension solution that is acceptable to all parties, including the pension regulator and the government.   

The Conciliator confirmed that the parties would be in a legal strike/lockout position at 12:01 am on September 13, 2014.

In an effort to reach a renewal agreement without a labour disruption the parties have agreed to mediation on September 10 and 12, 2014. The University’s proposals are consistent with what it has achieved with other employee groups, which is aimed at addressing the University’s financial realities along with the long term sustainability of the pension plan. 

The University values the contribution of these employees, and remains committed to achieving a fair, affordable and realistic renewal agreement and is hopeful that mediation is effective in achieving this result. However, the University has a responsibility to ensure we meet the needs of our campus community and, to that end contingency planning is well underway.