(Hamilton) Judy Darcy, the national president of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, says she is encouraged that both sides in the strike by McMasters 1,400 Teaching Assistants are finally back at the bargaining table.
Says Darcy, whose 475,000-member union represents the TAs, “they cant get any closer to a negotiated settlement if theyre not talking, and Im encouraged to see the university has at least taken that first step.”
The parties will continue bargaining with the help of a provincial mediator for a second straight day today on eight outstanding proposals. Talks were set to resume this morning at the Royal Connaught Hotel.
Says the CUPE National President, “I strongly believe it’s in everybody’s interest university workers, students and the administration - to bargain a fair settlement that recognizes the real contribution our members make to academic excellence and a culture of learning for students at McMaster.”
“Wed also like our members in Local 3906 to know that they have the support of the biggest union in this country behind them. The issues that they are fighting for, wages, benefits, working conditions, tuition rebates and more, are hugely important issues for university workers,” says Darcy.
For information:
John McCracken,CUPE Communications Rep.
(416) 292-3999 (o)
Mike Skinner, Business Agent, CUPE Local 3906
(905) 741-1400 (Cell)