(Sudbury, 13 September 2017)

Dear Colleagues,

If you have been reading our bulletins, you will know that LUFA has been in bargaining with the university administration for several months.

The next week will be crucial for putting pressure on the employer and showing them we are serious about getting a fair deal. As we continue to escalate our efforts, things will start happening much more quickly and our work to get an agreement and avoid a strike will become much more visible.

This Thursday, there will be a solidarity BBQ hosted by LUFA and the four main student associations to urge that the two sides arrive at a new collective agreement. It is vital that as many faculty as possible attend this event. It will take place in the atrium this Thursday, September 14 between 11 am and 1:30 pm. Free lunch will be provided.

On Friday, there will be an important membership meeting. At this meeting, we will hold a vote on whether we are willing to strike. Voting in favour of a strike doesn’t mean one will happen, but a strong strike vote is an important step to show the employer we are willing to walk out if they don’t make a fair offer. This meeting will also provide a forum for asking questions and finding out how you can get involved. The membership meeting will take place in W-132, West Residence on Friday, September 15 at 1 pm. In an earlier email (sent on Sept. 7), we provided details on how CCE members, members in Barrie, and members on sabbatical may attend the meeting by teleconference. Please contact us if you have not received it.

Throughout the week, Dan Scott and Robyn Gorham will be looking for volunteers to sign up for picket duty. Do not be surprised if you are approached.

Again, our priority is to push back against the concessions being requested by the employer, get a good agreement for our members, and avoid a strike. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

In solidarity,
Jim Ketchen