Photo: Algonquin College Pembroke Campus
Ontario’s college faculty, represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), are gearing up for possible labor action after months of stalled contract negotiations. As of today, the faculty have been without a contract for three months, and despite half a year of bargaining, their employer, the College Employer Council (CEC), has yet to present an offer that would improve their working conditions.
The faculty’s current situation remains precarious, with most courses being delivered by part-time, contract faculty who lack job security and benefits. According to OPSEU, the CEC’s proposed terms would leave faculty in a worse position than their expired contract, despite the rising challenges faced by frontline workers in the college system.
The union has issued a five-day notice of labor action, with the potential to begin a strike as early as January 9. While a non-binding mediation session is set for January 6-7, OPSEU officials emphasize that without significant progress, labor action could be inevitable. The union has made it clear that this action is necessary to protect the future of Ontario’s college faculty and ensure quality education.
OPSEU has urged its members to complete their registration on the union portal and stay connected with their Locals via non-college email addresses. Faculty are also advised to continue reporting to work unless instructed otherwise.
The union stresses that any strike action will disrupt their lives, but they see it as a necessary step to address the ongoing erosion of quality education and the exploitation of workers and students. OPSEU is committed to ensuring that Ontario’s colleges provide high-quality education that serves both students and the broader community.
Faculty members are standing firm for better conditions and a fair future, with the union calling on those who care about the future of education to support their efforts.
As the situation unfolds, the potential for a strike could have significant impacts on Ontario’s post-secondary education system, prompting attention from students, faculty, and policymakers alike.
(Written by: Emma Butler)