Strike Vote Result Increases Likelihood of Strike by College Faculty
Union proposals to increase salaries by 10% and staffing changes too costly
Colleges' offer remains on the table
TORONTO, Sept. 14, 2017 /CNW/ - Ontario college faculty voted in support of strike action, which increases the potential of a strike across Ontario's colleges.
"A strike is unnecessary and would be terrible news for our students who will be concerned about the impact on their studies," said Sonia Del Missier, Chair of the Colleges' Bargaining Team. "The parties remain far apart on key issues of salary, staffing, governance and academic delivery."
The colleges' offer of a 7.5% salary increase over four years, a new maximum salary of $115,094, a lump sum payment, benefit enhancements, and no concessions remains in place until September 29, 2017. The colleges' offer is in line with other recent settlements by public servants, teachers, and college support staff.
The union's proposals would increase costs by $400 million annually, change the governance of colleges, and restrict the colleges from overseeing academic delivery.
The union tabled a salary demand of more than 10% over three years.
"The strike vote outcome does not give the colleges any more money nor change the colleges' ability to accept the union's demands," said Ms. Del Missier. "The colleges remain committed to achieving a negotiated settlement, which is fair to our faculty while being affordable and responsible for the colleges. But we need practical proposals from the union to be successful."
The colleges and the union will return to the bargaining table on September 18.
SOURCE College Employer Council
David Scott, 416-786-1641, [email protected]
Share this article