Professionals Making A Difference
We have met for full days on six occasions with the Employer’s Bargaining Committee in April and May. We are now at the point in negotiations where the Parties have fully canvassed each others’ proposals in terms of questions and rationale. There has been progress in regard to housekeeping and renewal of letters of understanding. Both parties have revised and withdrawn some proposals in an effort to make further progress.
There is no question that the government’s mandate presents significant challenges. In the course of bargaining, it has become apparent that this mandate extends well beyond compensation, which is limited to 0% and 0% over two years. The government mandate also fetters opportunities to make substantive improvements in terms and conditions of employment (e.g. collective agreement language).
There are four more dates set for negotiations with the University: May 25th, June 7th, 14th, and 17th.
We believe this presents sufficient time to reach a tentative settlement, should we be able to achieve a package that we can recommend to our members. If we cannot, then it is likely that the parties will not resume bargaining until that last part of August or early September.
UVic Bargaining Committee:
Jonathan Foweraker, Co-op Education Coordinator
John Foxgord, Manager, Project Management Office
Jane Godfrey, Manager, Development Services
Sandra Guerreiro, Audience Services Manager
Lynn McCaughey, Career Educator
Matt Stiegemeyer, Manager, Student Marketing and Communications
Scott McCannell, PEA Labour Relations Officer
