After a prolonged period of striking that lasted over a month, approximately 10,000 support workers at Ontario’s 24 public colleges have reached a tentative agreement with their employer, as announced by the union representing them on Wednesday. The workers, encompassing roles such as librarian technicians, registrar employees, and technology support staff, had been on strike since September 11, citing concerns over job security and college funding.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) stated in a news release that the support staff are set to resume work on Thursday. They will have the opportunity to review the specifics of the newly proposed deal and vote on its ratification. Christine Kelsey, the chair of the union’s bargaining team, emphasized the necessity of the strike in response to perceived threats to public education, including potential privatization, significant job losses, and program reductions across the college system.
Although details of the agreement were not disclosed by Kelsey, she acknowledged the collective effort of members during intense negotiations with a challenging employer. The College Employer Council (CEC) confirmed that a private mediation session over the weekend successfully resolved the bargaining deadlock. The tentative deal is expected to undergo ratification by November 4, with picketing activities ceasing in the interim.
CEC CEO Graham Lloyd expressed gratitude for the impending return of support staff to their roles, recognizing their vital contributions to college operations and student achievements. The negotiations between OPSEU and the CEC commenced in June after the expiration of the previous contract in September, leading to the strike action by over 10,000 workers protesting anticipated job losses and program cuts.
The union’s advocacy centered on securing job stability and adequate funding for public colleges in response to reported mass layoffs. While the CEC had previously contended that the union’s demands were economically unfeasible due to declining college enrollments and revenues, the union persisted in its fight for essential protections against closures, mergers, and staff reductions.
In a critical statement, the union accused the government, indirectly referencing Premier Doug Ford’s administration, of inadequately funding the public college system in Ontario. Kelsey underscored the broader significance of the union’s actions beyond contractual terms, asserting that public awareness had been raised regarding what they perceive as deliberate underfunding of colleges within the context of broader privatization initiatives.