Message from Laurie M. Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students) – Oct. 20
Dear Students,
You have likely heard that the University of Manitoba Faculty Association (UMFA) has voted to give the union a strike mandate. Understandably, you will have questions about what this means for you.
Please note, a strike mandate does not mean a strike will happen. Rather, a strike mandate means that the union leaders have the approval from its membership to choose to strike if they are dissatisfied with the progression of negotiations. The university bargaining team remains committed to working hard to reach a new agreement.
In the meantime, please be assured that the university is continuing with normal operations – including all COVID-19 protocols – to ensure the health and safety of our students, staff and community. You can continue to join us on campus, as you have been this term, for your required classes, labs and other activities.
We will share as much information with you as possible, as soon as it becomes available. Any updates affecting students will be communicated to you directly from me in emails such as this one. For current and past updates, and general information, please visit our Bargaining Information web page under “Bargaining Updates.”
The university remains committed to your education and well-being. If you are experiencing difficulties, supports are available to you. If you need help with academics, your finances or have health and wellness concerns, there are staff committed to providing student advocacy, supporting your emotional wellness, offering spiritual care and more.
As our university president, Michael Benarroch, said in his message yesterday, your resilience and patience are truly appreciated as the university and UMFA work on a collective agreement to support stability in operations; an outstanding educational experience for you, our students, and in providing fairness to our faculty members.
I will write to you with further updates as soon as possible.
All my best,
Laurie