Settlement reached between UM and AESES on behalf of employees laid off in Summer 2020
Over the past 18 months, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented a number of challenges for the University of Manitoba community. Within days of the arrival of COVID-19 in Manitoba, UM’s campuses were shut down forcing the temporary suspension of many operations. We switched to remote learning and most employees began working from home. This was a drastic and sudden change for all employees at UM.
The university faced a number of constraints in the spring of 2020 due to pandemic-related impacts. These required UM to make quick decisions about temporary staffing changes, which involved members of most bargaining units and employee groups.
The Association of Employees Supporting Education Services (AESES) filed two grievances in relation to UM’s implementation of temporary lay-offs and recalls. AESES and UM are pleased to have reached a resolution to this matter through the mediation process.
“We look forward to working together to implement this resolution,” says Naomi Andrew, UM’s vice-president (administration). “We value all of our employees and are grateful for the dedication they have shown during this challenging time.”
Affected employees have been contacted by letter directly from Human Resources and will receive their settlement in November of 2021. Questions about how the decision was reached, and how settlements will be disseminated, can be directed to Human Resources.