University of Western Ontario Staff Association

At the General Meeting on Tuesday, August 2nd, UWOSA members were updated on the status of the union's collective bargaining with UWO Administration.

On June 22, the UWO negotiations team notified the union that it would table discussion regarding monetary issues until after the university has met with the Ontario Government in early August, as a follow-up to the Finance Minister's announcement on July 20th.

UWOSA informed UWO administration that it would file for conciliation, but would continue to negotiate non-monetary issues.

Following is a synopsis of the main questions and discussion that ensued.

Why Did We Call for a Conciliator?
Although monetary discussions are tabled, progress on non-monetary issues in collective bargaining has stalled. The team is fighting to maintain members' rights under the collective agreement that seem to be under attack. Talks cannot drag on indefinitely. UWOSA members are currently working without a contract, and it is imperative that we secure a fair and acceptable contract for all.

What Does Filing for Conciliation Mean to UWOSA?
At the General Meeting, a document outlining the conciliation process was distributed to members. To view this document, please read, UWOSA Calls for a Conciliator.

What Happens Now?
UWOSA's negotiations team is back at the table on August 10, 11, 12, 18 and 20. If required, more dates will be booked.

When Will I Get More Information on What is Happening?
Your team will be back on campus on Friday, August 13th. An email will be sent to you on that date to update you on the status of negotiations.

Can I Do Anything in this Process?
The most important thing you can do is support your negotiations team which is working hard for you. Keep informed on what is going on -- check the website, attend meetings, talk to fellow UWOSA members, discuss your concerns with your Area Steward.

The Union Needs to Improve Its Communication with Members
We heard you. We will update the UWOSA website, and contact you by email regularly.

Stephanie Macleod
UWOSA Vice President and
Chair, Negotiations Committee

On July 21, 2010, following numerous bargaining sessions, UWOSA notified the UWO administration that it intends to ask the Ontario Ministry of Labour to appoint a conciliator.

The role of the conciliator is to confer with the parties and endeavour to reach a collective agreement, but has no authority to impose a settlement. Conciliation is a service provided by the Ministry at no cost, and is aimed at facilitating an agreement. Either side may call for a conciliator at any time after notice of desire to bargain has been given.

UWOSA has informed UWO administration that it intends to continue to negotiate.

Have you ever thought of becoming a steward (or alternate)? Are you interested in knowing more about the union and what it is about? Have you done some union training in the past, but want a refresher? If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, Steward Training may just be for you!

UWOSA is offering Steward Training 1: "Building Unions in a World of Change" on 3 Thursdays: April 22, May 6 & 20. The course will begin at 4:45pm and end no later than 8pm each evening (and perhaps sooner). A light supper will be provided.

Polls have closed, and the results of UWOSA elections are in.