University of Manitoba (WIKIPEDIA)
Last-minute negotiations between the University of Manitoba and its faculty have averted a strike.
Through a provincially-appointed mediator, both sides came to an agreement late Monday night. At issue was academic freedom for professors, who say they should have the final say on how and where they conduct their research without interference from university administration.
The U of M and its professors represented by the University of Manitoba Faculty Association (UMFA) reached a three-year agreement before the midnight deadline.
“I extend my congratulations to the bargaining teams for all their efforts to reach a negotiated settlement,” said David Barnard, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Manitoba. “Most importantly, I am pleased to be able to inform our students that we will be open and operating with no disruption to their learning.”
Staff represented by the UMFA had been in talks with the university up until late last week. No reported progress was made over the weekend when talks broke down.
The agreement on all major issues will ensure that there will be no work stoppage. The parties have agreed to have the remaining issues arbitrated.
