Conversations between Dalhousie University and Association planned
A New Attempt to Resolve Contract Conflict at Dalhousie University
A brokerage meeting has been scheduled for 8 September in an effort to put an end to the contract dispute between Dalhousie University and the Dalhousie Faculty Union (DFA).
Both the union and the university have confirmed that the provincial mediation officer, Rick Rose, has organized a meeting set for Monday at 9 am.
“The DFA is eager to return to the negotiating table,” a statement from the DFA released on Friday afternoon ahead of the meeting at the university read.
The Dalhousie Board of Governors has also expressed its willingness to resume discussions, emphasizing that the talks need not wait until next week.
“Time is of the essence for our students, faculty, and the entire Dalhousie community,” a statement from the university stated. “If productive discussions can lead to a resolution that fully supports our academic mission, there is no need to delay until Monday.”
Background of the Conflict
Dalhousie University excluded the Faculty Association on August 20, which prompted the DFA to announce a strike shortly after.
As a result of the contract dispute, numerous classes taught by DFA members have been canceled at Dalhousie, leaving students frustrated by the lack of clarity regarding when they can attend their classes or communicate with their professors.
This uncertainty has raised concerns among students at the university, with many from the Maritimes adopting a “wait-and-see” approach, as highlighted by the President of Dalhousie Student Union on The Todd Veinotte Show.
“People are anxious about the potential implications of a prolonged labor dispute, whether it means missing weeks of classes or risking losing credits,” Maren Mealey expressed.
