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UWinnipeg faculty union negotiations

UWFA calls end to negotiations, UWinnipeg administration to apply for conciliation

WINNIPEG, MB – The University of Winnipeg bargaining team met with The University of Winnipeg Faculty Association (UWFA) Main bargaining team today, Saturday, March 5. However, during a discussion over compensation, UWFA called an end to the negotiations without the parties being able to conclude a collective agreement.

The Faculty Association maintained their position from Friday that their bottom line was 8.4% over three years. As a comparison, this position is almost twice the amount that the University of Manitoba settled for in the Fall of 2010. The University had originally tabled a four-year collective agreement that was rejected by the members. On Friday, March 4, in response to UWFA’s request for a three-year collective agreement, the University tabled a proposal totaling 3.7% over three years plus improvements to benefits.

The University remains strongly committed to finalizing a collective agreement with the Faculty Association, and to avoiding a strike and any disruption to students. The University has asked the Faculty Association to file jointly for conciliation. We are awaiting the Faculty Association’s response. However, the University’s administration advised UWFA this afternoon that the University will apply for conciliation to the Minister of Labour on Monday morning. In accordance with the Labour Relations Act, the University is moving forward as it would appear that a collective agreement will not be achievable without external assistance. Conciliators are appointed by the Minister of Labour to work with both parties with a view to assisting in the settlement of any outstanding disputes.

The University also asked UWFA this afternoon after negotiations stopped not to put the membership out on strike during the conciliation process. The University is awaiting their response at this time.

The University’s administration remains committed to resolving outstanding matters with UWFA in order to reach an agreement, and to avoid a strike and any disruptions for students.

Please check the University’s website: www.uwinnipeg.ca for continuing updates.

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