‘Wish we could offer more’: Dalhousie University gives union final pitch as possible labour disruption looms

Dalhousie University is seen in Halifax on May 28, 2020.

Dalhousie University board of governors has given its union of more than 1,000 members its final offering in the collective bargaining negotiations as possible class interruptions loom.

The Dalhousie Faculty Association was scheduled to meet with the board of governors on Monday following a 14-day countdown triggered by a “no board report” in mid-July, which indicates a bargaining impasse.

The Association’s previous three-year contract expired at the end of June and negotiations for a new one started in May. A conciliation officer joined the process in the summer.

In an open letter, Dalhousie president Kim Brooks outlined the final offer to the union, which includes wage increases of two per cent per year for three years.

David Westwood, president of the Association, previously told CTV News Atlantic they are seeking wage increases of seven per cent in the first year and four per cent in the second and third years for a total of 15 per cent.

“While the proposed IMC increases are in line with current inflation rates, we acknowledge that this offer does not reflect the higher inflation rates of previous years,” Brooks said. “We know many faculty (and staff) face financial pressures. We also know the challenges faculty members have weathered in recent years, including adapting to a pandemic, supporting students experiencing increased mental health challenges, and navigating geopolitical tensions.

“We truly wish we could offer more. Our priority with this offer is to protect core academic activity and minimize further significant layoffs in the years ahead. This is the most we can responsibly commit to at this time.”

Earlier this year, Dalhousie released its operating budget and announced a $20.6 million deficit along with cuts to all faculties and tuition increases for some international students.

Brooks said Dalhousie has withdrawn its proposal on the “90-10” rule, which requires that 90 per cent of all teaching at Dalhousie be done by Association members.

“We hope faculty will recognize the effort to find common ground, including the withdrawal of 90/10 proposal — a decision made in the spirit of partnership and longer-term collaboration,” Brooks said. “In the full context of the university’s financial realities and future responsibilities, we believe this offer represents a serious and principled path forward.”

Janet Bryson, director of strategic communications and media relations with Dalhousie, previously told CTV News Atlantic that a strike or a lockout could be possible if an agreement is not reached.

Westwood previously said the union has been clear in its desire to not call a strike in August.

“An August lockout would disrupt a lot of teaching,” he said. “It’s also a top month when graduate students are defending their theses. All those defences would be terminated if there’s a lockout. Our members would be unable to do the preparations to get ready for September.”

-With files from CTV News Atlantic’s Jesse Huot

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