The University of Western Ontario has been in negotiations with UWOFA-LA (Librarians and Archivists) since May working to renew the group’s first contract, which ended July 1.
The 55 members of the bargaining unit are represented by the University of Western Ontario Faculty Association.
On Oct. 9, UWOFA-LA requested and was granted a “no-board” report, meaning it will be in a legal strike position as of 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31. Conciliation talks are continuing with three more meetings scheduled to the end of October.
The university is putting a number of plans in place to minimize disruption to students, employees and the community as much as possible should a labour disruption occur. It is expected that all campus libraries will remain open and most services will be available.
All university employees who are not members of UWOFA-LA will be required to report to work as usual in the event of a labour disruption by UWOFA-LA, and students will be required to attend all classes and exams as usual.
When passing through picket lines, employees, students and visitors should:
Be courteous if delayed or questioned by picketers. If challenged, assert your position as a non-striking employee or student, and express your intention to exercise your legal right to work or attend class. Avoid arguments and confrontations.
Contact Campus Community Police Services at 519-661-3300 should any safety concerns arise.
Please continue to visit www.uwo.ca for up-to-date information.
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UPDATE: This article was revised Oct. 26 to reflect new information about the number of scheduled conciliation meetings.