Local 179 – Saint Mary’s University Bargaining Update: Filing for Conciliation

Your Bargaining Committee last met with the Employer’s Negotiating Committee on July 13th. There were several non-monetary proposals agreed to, and the parties continued to negotiate monetary items. Outstanding proposals include wages, vacation, and changes to Term Employees. The parties believe we have reached an impasse in bargaining and are seeking the assistance of a conciliator. We are waiting on dates for conciliation and will share those dates with the membership as soon as we have them.

What is conciliation? Conciliation is a requirement under the Nova Scotia Trade Union Act that takes place when regular negotiations fail to reach an agreement. Either party may apply to the Minister of Labour and Advanced Education requesting the services of a Conciliation Officer. The Conciliation Officer does not have the power to impose a settlement on either party. Instead, their role is to mediate between the parties and help them reach an agreement.

In the meantime, your bargaining committee will be holding an important strike vote to back your bargaining demands in Conciliation. It is critical that we get a strong strike mandate in order to put pressure on your employer during this process. It is important to note that this is NOT a vote that will actually initiate a strike: another vote will be held on whatever offer or agreement comes out of the conciliation process. Dates for the vote will be communicated once they are confirmed.

We appreciate your solidarity and support during this round of bargaining and will be in touch with conciliation dates once received.

Bargaining Committee Members:

Liliane Bassil  Liliane_bassil@hotmail.com
Ian Mayfield  imayfield@hotmail.com
Christian Niles  Christian.niles@smu.ca
Shellie Petrossie  stewardchieflocal179@gmail.com
Shannon Rhode  Shannon.d.rhode@gmail.com

Darryl Warren, Lead Negotiator dwarren@nsgeu.ca