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Wage Dispute
Day one of the strike has York University buzzing with activity. Union members from PP 3903, representing 3,000 workers, are at the forefront of the strike. These members are responsible for over 50% of the teaching at the university, which is bound to have an impact on students.
At the heart of the strike is a wage dispute. Both sides are currently not at the bargaining table as they are too far apart in their negotiations. The union is asking for a significant wage increase, while the employer’s offer falls short of meeting the rising cost of living.
The union is seeking a 7% increase over the next two years, followed by 5% or inflation rates in the subsequent years. In contrast, the employer’s proposal includes wage increases of 3%, 2.75%, and 2.25% over the next three years.
Union’s Demands
Members of the union have expressed their concerns regarding the affordability crisis they are facing. They argue that the employer has yet to put forward an offer that adequately addresses their financial needs. Some members have resorted to relying on food banks and working multiple jobs to make ends meet.
The union is also seeking 4% retroactive pay since 2020 to account for the impacts of previous legislation that limited their wage increases during a period of high inflation. Despite their willingness to negotiate, the union claims that the employer has not presented any serious monetary offers to address the cost of living crisis.
Continued Friction
This strike is not the first time academic workers at York University have taken job action. In 2018, a previous strike was cut short by legislation that limited public sector wage increases to 1%. With the recent overturn of that legislation by the courts, tensions have resurfaced between the union and the university.
The lack of progress in negotiations has left both sides at a standstill, with no resolution in sight. While the university claims to have offered proposals to address crucial issues, the union maintains that these proposals have not been adequate.
FAQ
Q: How long is the strike expected to last?
A: The duration of the strike is uncertain, as both sides are currently not engaged in negotiations.
Q: What are the main demands of the union?
A: The union is seeking significant wage increases, retroactive pay, and measures to address the affordability crisis faced by its members.
York University’s Response
York University has expressed disappointment at the lack of progress in negotiations. The university had hoped to reach a collective agreement with the union before the strike began, but talks have stalled. Contingency plans are in place to mitigate the impact on students.
This strike is just one of the latest challenges stemming from the fallout of previous legislation that restricted wage increases for public sector workers. As tensions continue to escalate, the future of the strike remains uncertain.
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