1,500 staff on strike at Dalhousie University

Teaching assistants, part-time academics, markers, and demonstrators at Dalhousie University (Dal) in Halifax went on strike this morning. Approximately 1,500 members of CUPE 3912 at Dal have been in collective bargaining with the employer since November 2020. The main issue is wages. For many years, wage increases have not kept up with the cost of living. The employer is offering a wage increase that is well below inflation, and CUPE 3912 members will not accept a pay cut. Wage parity is an issue for teaching assistants who are some of the lowest paid in the U15 (Canada’s top research universities). There is also a large disparity between wages for part-time academics here and at other universities in Canada. The university is taking advantage of markers and demonstrators by asking them to perform the function of TAs, but only paying them two-thirds of what TAs are paid. Yesterday, the employer walked away from the table and gave notice of intent to … Read more…

Hurricane Fiona Relief Fund

In response to the damage that hurricane Fiona has inflicted on our province, CUPE Nova Scotia has created a relief fund to provide financial assistance to members who have suffered losses due to the destruction. Details about the application process have been sent to locals. For more information, please contact your Area VP or email cupensrelief@gmail.com.

CUPE members push for better working conditions and public health care during Continuing Care Month

“In celebration of Continuing Care Month, we would like to take this opportunity to recognize the incredible work and dedication of health care team members across Nova Scotia, including the 10,000 home support, acute care and long-term care workers represented by CUPE,” says Nan McFadgen, president of the Nova Scotia division of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). “We acknowledge and thank all front-line health care workers,” adds Louise Riley, chairperson of CUPE’s Long-Term Care and Community Services Coordinating Committee, “and this week, we celebrate the compassion, strength, and dedication of continuing care assistants (CCAs), and all team members, without whom health care would not be possible.” Nova Scotia’s health care system depends on the commitment and work of team members. Yet, we have a crisis in hiring and retaining staff in almost all classifications. “Our government needs to show respect for all employees in order to address this … Read more…