Yukon University and the Yukon Employees’ Union plan to resume negotiations this week to prevent a potential labour disruption. The union secured a strike mandate in January, paving the way for possible job action starting March 2.
Key Disagreements in Wage Talks
The collective agreement between the university, the Public Service Alliance of Canada, and the Yukon Employees’ Union expired in June 2024. Interim President Shelagh Rowles confirmed that bargaining sessions are scheduled from Monday through Wednesday. She noted significant gaps in wage proposals, with the union seeking a 17.5 percent increase while the university faces a mandate limiting raises to 11 percent.
Senate Pauses Academic Disruption Plan
Last Wednesday, the university’s governing senate delayed a vote on its academic disruption plan to incorporate student feedback. This plan outlines how a strike might impact coursework and term completion. Rowles emphasized the senate’s role in ensuring student certainty: “This is an opportunity for the parties to come together to find a solution. The senate has a responsibility to have a solution to that, to have a pathway and communication for students to be able to finish the term.”
Student Concerns Mount
International undergraduate student Parth Vavadiya expressed worries about maintaining grades, covering tuition and rent, and preserving his study visa amid a potential strike. He anticipates picket lines but trusts student union and senate leaders to secure assurances.
Students at the Yukon School of Visual Arts (SOVA) in Dawson City, accredited by Yukon University, also feel uneasy. SOVA student Olive Siemens must complete courses by June to transfer to the Ontario College of Art & Design University. Despite supporting faculty, Siemens adopts a resigned outlook: “I kind of need to also just trust that what’s going to happen is going to happen and it’s going to be OK.”
Student Union Leaders Advocate for Clarity
Two student representatives, including Student Union President Mandeep Singh, joined an ad hoc committee to finalize the academic disruption plan. Singh highlighted risks to academics, finances, and mental health, urging clearer information as students face the heaviest consequences. “Students are really crying when they are telling their stories,” he said. “That really makes me very stressed and also very sad.” Singh hopes a swift deal averts the strike.
