Strong strike mandate vote shows the Employer that YUFA is united

In bargaining with YUFA on Friday, July 26, the Employer continued to propose a salary freeze for the first year (2024-25) of the new collective agreement, but slightly raised the average annual salary increase over the three year term of the collective agreement to 2.18% from the previous 1.93%. This is well below other recent settlements for faculty groups in our sector. Compensation, and many other provisions and proposals from both sides, are still being negotiated while YUFA remains concerned about a number of concessionary demands by the Employer that remain on the table.
The resoundingly strong strike mandate vote result announced Friday, in which 83.8% of YUFA members participated with 92.3% voting in favour of a strike mandate, is greatly assisting the YUFA Bargaining Team to advance the interests of YUFA members at the negotiations. 
Bargaining continues, supported by mediator Hanane Benzidane, on July 29, 31, August 1 and 2. Further dates are being held for mid August. Both sides have stated their desire is to reach a negotiated settlement.
However, YUFA remains vigilant. YUFA’s weekly zoom drop-in session on Wednesday July 31, from noon to 1 pm, will focus on strike/lockout preparations. Members of the Bargaining Team and Executive will be present to discuss plans with members and answer questions.
The Zoom link for Wednesday's drop-in session was shared over YUFA-M.