Bargaining FAQ

answering your burning questions about strike votes and next steps

What is a strike vote?

• What is a strike vote?
  • It is a demonstration of faculty solidarity in support of the demands we collectively set
    and the way we can put pressure on the employer to bargain for a fair contract.
• Why is there a strike vote?
  • The CEC walked away from the table, refused binding arbitration and called for a “no
    board” report.
  • The CEC has left us no other options than to call a strike vote.
  • It is our last line of defense before a contract is imposed by the CEC/ employer.
• What happens if we vote “No”?
  • The CEC can impose a new contract that will likely be worse than the previous offer,
    including drastic changes to our work environment, pay, schedules, SWF, benefits and
    anything else they would like to change.
  • The CEC changes can change any aspect of the Collective Agreement, including the
    reversal of historical wins.
• What happens if we vote “Yes”?
  • We have leverage to get the CEC back to the table and/or binding arbitration.
  • It provides us with a way of responding if the CEC imposes terms and conditions.
  • Union job action options could include:
    • Work to rule
    • Refusals to perform overtime
    • Strikes targeting specific work tasks
    • Rolling strikes targeting different workplaces
    • Strike

When will a strike vote happen?

• When will a strike vote happen?
  • Best estimate at this time is the first or second week of December at the earliest, though
    likely later (in any case, the current semester will not be affected).
• If we vote “Yes,” will we automatically be on strike?
  • Absolutely not. Nobody wants to go on strike.
  • A strike is one possible outcome of a strike vote.
  • A strong strike mandate is the best way to reduce the possibility of a strike.
• If a strike happens, when will that be?
  • Note from JP: "There will not be a strike over the holiday break. Period."