MSVU, SMU classes resume Monday after part-time faculty ratify new deals

The sign outside Mount Saint Vincent University is pictured. (Mike Lamb/CTV News Atlantic)

Courses that were suspended at Mount Saint Vincent University and Saint Mary’s University in Halifax due to a three-week strike resumed on Monday after part-time faculty ratified new collective agreements.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 3912, which represents part-time faculty at the Mount and Saint Mary’s, said both groups ratified their tentative deals after they went on strike in late October.

Both parties had been without collective agreements since August 2024.

“Thanks and congratulations to the negotiating and strike committees, volunteers,” CUPE said in a news release. “And, thanks to all you supported us during the strikes.”

In a separate statement, Isabelle Nault, vice president of administration for the Mount, said their senate will meet on Monday to discuss possible support for students and faculty impacted by the disruption to classes.

The Saint Mary’s senate will also have a special meeting on Wednesday to develop academic guidance for the paused classes.

Part-time faculty at the Mount were seeking wage increases and the removal of restrictions on members’ academic freedom to teach and assess. Saint Mary’s faculty were looking for improved stipends and guaranteed work for instructors who have taught with the university for at least three consecutive years.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page