University of Guelph heading for Strike

University of Guelph trades, maintenance and service workers, represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), are preparing for a strike as early as next month if a fair deal is not reached with the university.

“We are committed to fighting concessions,” said Janice Folk-Dawson, president of CUPE 1334. “Our members work hard for this university and attempts by management to roll back our collective agreement shows a lack of respect for our work.”

University management is demanding concessions at the bargaining table, including benefits cutbacks. Other outstanding issues include pension and job security. The 280 workers, who provide custodial, trades and maintenance services at the university, recently voted 91% in favour of a strike. Their last contract expired on April 30th, 2005. Conciliation talks have been scheduled for September 7th.

“The upcoming talks will give management an opportunity to withdraw their concession demands and offer us a fair contract,” said Folk-Dawson. “Without a fair settlement, students coming back from their summer break will face a strike that will hurt our university. That’s the last thing we want.”