We have publicly requested the College Employer Council (CEC) and the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) agree to binding arbitration to help end the ongoing faculty strike. If OPSEU and CEC are serious about putting students first, they will agree to binding arbitration
You can read our full news release here.
WHAT IS BINDING ARBITRATION? Arbitration is a process in which a third-party (an arbitrator or arbitration board) hears evidence from both the union (OPSEU) and the employer (CEC) on what is being disputed. From there, the arbitrator/board reaches a final decision, which is binding. An arbitration board is made up of one representative from the union, one representative from the employer, and a neutral chair. A sole arbitrator can be either agreed upon by the employer and union or appointed by the Ministry of Labour.
WHY IS CSA REQUESTING BINDING ARBITRATION?
CSA is requesting binding arbitration for one simple reason: students need to be back in the classroom as soon as possible. It’s been made clear that CEC and OPSEU are unable to reach an agreement on their own.
Now, CEC has asked for a forced faculty vote. The vote is currently scheduled to take place between 9 a.m. on Nov. 14 and 10 a.m. on Nov. 16, electronically. If the faculty vote fails, OPSEU and CEC will be back at square one, leaving students dangerously close to losing their semester. OPSEU has confirmed they will encourage faculty to vote no in order to force negotiations to continue.
Arbitration is the logical next step.
WHAT’S STOPPING THIS FROM HAPPENING?
In order for binding arbitration to take place, BOTH SIDES MUST AGREE TO THE PROCESS. CSA has asked both sides to agree immediately, however, we have yet to hear back from either party.
We will continue to update students on our website and through our social media channels.
