We are writing to share important news regarding a recent settlement reached between YUFA and York University concerning the employer’s suspension of admissions to programs between 2020 and 2025. This update provides an overview of the settlement, the benefits for impacted programs, and the path forward.

Primer – On June 25, 2026, YUFA and York University reached [a settlement: MoS] in the matter of two policy grievances filed regarding the suspension of admissions to programs at York University between 2020 and 2025. Members appointed to a program impacted by suspension of admissions during that period are invited to consult the Memorandum of Settlement at the link.

Benefits – Members in programs impacted by suspension of admissions will be provided with both resources and a clearer process to rely on following the employer’s decision to suspend admissions to their programs over the last five years. About 30 programs will have an opportunity to receive meaningful support through the provisions of the settlement reached between the parties. In contrast, a decision by an arbitrator would have taken several more years and assuming a favourable outcome for the Association, the remedies would have been put back in the hands of the parties in the first instance, to negotiate.

Moving forward – Members in the impacted programs who engage in the process laid out in the settlement are invited to reach YUFA if they have questions or if they encounter issues along the way. The Mediator who was involved in settlement discussion remains seized as mediator, and if necessary, arbitrator, with respect to any issues concerning implementation of the settlement.

The litigation process further exposed opportunities for mobilization on issues of restructuring. YUFA maintains the position that the employer is obligated to provide information to YUFA through the Joint Committee on Long Range Planning (the LRP) as soon as the employer contemplates academic restructuring in the workplace.

There is also an opportunity for YUFA members who sit as Senators to exert influence over employer restructuring efforts, especially in light of the employer’s introduction at the Senate of the President’s Policy Framework for Temporary Suspension of Admissions to Programs at York University. While this policy was endorsed by Senators in June 2025, it presents ample room for further improvement. YUFA invites members to consider bolstering this policy.

In addition to changes through the Senate, this policy and the current employer process of suspending admissions to programs is also subject to improvements through upcoming bargaining negotiations between the parties.

YUFA is deeply grateful to all the members who provided time, energy and expertise over the past three years to support the litigation process.

Further reference: York and YUFA Restructuring MOS [ Link ]