TO ALL STUDENTS AND STAFF

The University and CAW have been bargaining since September 24th in an effort to reach a new Collective Agreement. On October 3, 2007 the University applied for conciliation when negotiations reached an impasse. The CAW membership voted in favour of establishing a strike deadline of midnight Tuesday, October 9, 2007. Should negotiations be unsuccessful in reaching a collective agreement by that date, strike action by CAW staff could take place as early as Wednesday, October 10.

The CAW represents approximately 480 University employees in the maintenance trades, powerhouse, general services (truck deliveries, snow clearing, garbage pick up, etc.), grounds, caretaking, residences and food services.

In the event of a strike, the University will continue normal operations to the extent possible. Although a CAW labour action may have some impact on aspects of University operations, it is not expected to have a direct impact on the delivery of academic programs.

In the event of a strike the following standard employment procedures apply:

1. During a strike all employees have a legal right to work:

* All employees have a legal right to cross a picket line and come to work.

* Those employees on strike may choose to come to work or not come to work.

* Those employees not on strike, including those employees covered by collective agreements other than CAW agreement and excluded employees, have a legal right to work as well as an obligation to come to work.

2. Employees who do not come to work will not be paid and may be subject to discipline.

3. Any picket line incidents or problems should be reported immediately to the University Security Services (474-9312). Rogers and MTS Mobility cellular customers can also reach Security by dialing #555.

In the event of a strike, students should be aware of the following:

1. Classes, lectures and labs will continue as scheduled unless otherwise announced.

2. Libraries will remain open.

3. Winnipeg Transit and the University shuttle bus will continue to operate.

4. Some services around campus (eg. Food Services, custodial) will be reduced. Should a strike occur, more information will be made available.

5. Residence food service and cleaning will be provided by non-union staff.

6. Any picket line incidents or problems should be reported immediately to the University Security Services (474-9312). Rogers and MTS Mobility cellular customers can also reach Security by dialing #555.

In the event of a strike, more information will be provided to you through the University web site, e-mail communications and an information hotline at the earliest possible opportunity on Wednesday October 10.