The University of Guelph is negotiating a renewal collective agreement with CUPE 1334, the union that represents approximately 240 trades, custodial and maintenance workers on campus.

The University values the work of members of CUPE 1334, and recognizes and appreciates their contributions. The University is committed to constructive, collective bargaining and to reaching a fair settlement.

Negotiations with CUPE 1334 began in November 2016. The parties last met with a Ministry of Labour-appointed conciliator February 17. While we have made progress in a number of areas, key issues remain outstanding and we have been unable to reach an agreement. Following the parties last conciliation date, the University received confirmation from the Union of its intention to file a “no board report.” As of Monday, March 13, at 12:01 am, CUPE 1334 is in a legal strike position.

The parties have agreed to enter mediation March 9 and 10 with the assistance of a provincially appointed mediator. The University would like to avoid a labour disruption and will work hard during these two days to reach a fair, affordable, and realistic renewal agreement.

The University’s proposal to CUPE 1334 includes reasonable wage increases in each year of a renewal agreement and no concessions on wages or benefits.

We will also take the necessary steps to sustain the defined benefit pension plan without any changes to the current design or reduction to benefits.

We remain open to exploring alternative staffing options with CUPE 1334; a position that has remained unchanged since we first approached the Union about addressing its challenges prior to the expiration of the collective agreement.

The University believes that our proposals are fair and reasonable, and we remain hopeful that mediation will achieve a positive result. At the same time, we have a responsibility to meet the needs of the campus community. To this end, contingency planning is well underway.

In the event of a work stoppage, the University will work hard to minimize the effect on students, staff, faculty and other members of the U of G community. The University would remain open and continue to provide services. All classes and exams would continue.

Again, the University highly values the work of all its employees and is committed to negotiating a fair renewal collective agreement with CUPE 1334.

Updates will be posted on the Human Resources website and the University’s homepage as available.

Please visit the Human Resources Negotiation updates [1] page regular for further updates.