Revised CUPE 3903 contract proposals represents 'last, best hope' to save York University summer terms

TORONTO, May 10, 2018 /CNW/ - Negotiators for Local 3903 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 3903) today called on York University to agree to face-to-face meetings as quickly as possible to consider a package of amended bargaining aimed at resolving the ten week long academic workers' strike.

"For the sake of students and for an institution we care deeply about, our Bargaining Team has put considerable effort into these amended proposals, which we believe are a framework towards resolving the dispute between the parties," said CUPE 3903 Chairperson Devin Lefebvre.

"We believe these proposals represent the last, best hope to save what remains of the Summer Terms. If York genuinely seeks a resolution, then they need to come to the table and finish the job," he added.

Earlier today, CUPE 3903 sent a letter to York University President Rhonda Lenton, requesting that York University's bargaining representatives agree to a meeting where the Bargaining Team would present their revised proposals.

The letter states that the union's proposals will expire on Monday, May 14.

Units 1, 2 and 3 of CUPE 3903, representing about 3,000 teaching assistants, contract faculty and graduate assistants, began strike action March 5 in an effort to secure a fair, concession-free contract. York has repeatedly refused requests to resume bargaining, meeting with the union only once in the past ten weeks since the strike began.

Lefebvre said CUPE 3903 has asked York to agree to meet with the assistance of a third-party mediator, as quickly as possible.

"Time is running out. Our Bargaining Team is ready and available to resume bargaining. York has publicly stated their desire for a resolution, but have not backed up those statements with concrete action. If York genuinely wants to save the summer terms and end this dispute, then they need to respond to our offer to resume negotiations," said Lefebvre.

SOURCE Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE)

Julian Arend, CUPE 3903 spokesperson, 437-288-6165, Kevin Wilson, CUPE Communications, 416-821-6641