Larger Text
Smaller Text
PrintStudent/Parent Updates-Labour Relations
October 19, 2009
There have been new developments in the University's continued negotiations for a renewed collective agreement with CUPE 3906, Unit 1 (representing Teaching Assistants and some Research Assistants).
- The University and union met on October 14, 15 and 16 for three full days of bargaining with assistance from a provincial conciliation officer
- The University tabled a new offer during these talks
- A "No Board" report, requested by the union, has been issued by the province
- October 31 (12:01 am) is the earliest date the union could legally strike
- Further talks involving the University, the conciliation officer and union have been scheduled for October 29 and 30
The University is proposing a two-year contract that would raise hourly rates for graduate TAs and RAs to $39.30 by the end of the second year. Undergraduate TAs hourly rates would increase to $22.05 over the same period. University contributions to the union-administered benefits plan would be maintained. The proposal also improves the collaborative process by which individual work plans are developed to ensure a balanced and effective workload for TAs. Improvements in job security and some improvement to bereavement leave are included in the employer's proposal.
A summary of the revised University offer is available here.
McMaster’s current collective agreement with CUPE Local 3906 Unit 1 representing Teaching and Research Assistants expired on August 30, 2009.
The University began face-to-face negotiations with the union on June 30.
Background Information:
- There are approximately 3000 Teaching Assistants and Research Assistants on campus
- Teaching Assistants play important roles at the University and the goal is to recognize the value of that work while taking into consideration the significant short and long-term financial challenges McMaster faces
- The union represents Teaching Assistants and Research Assistants (who receive a Research Assistantship in lieu of a Teaching Assistantship) in their capacities as employees of the University and not as students