As you may have seen, NSCAD has submitted an application to the labour board requesting arbitration. Let’s be clear: This move from the employer is a sign that our strike is working!
Despite claiming that we are “not essential to their business,” after only 4 days NSCAD is crying foul and looking for an off-ramp. They want the government to take over the process that they have refused to participate in. They are seeking to achieve through government action what they have been unable to get through bargaining. They want to break our union and for everyone to just sit down and return to work.
NSCAD’s decision to pursue arbitration is disappointing, but not surprising. Binding arbitration is a process by which both parties would allow the government to appoint a third-party arbitrator with the power to impose a legally binding contract. This process effectively circumvents the bargaining process, and the Union has been given 10 days to provide a response as to whether we accept arbitration or not.
The decision to seek arbitration after only 4 days means that our strike is having an effect. NSCAD is feeling the pressure, and now they want a way out without having to make a deal. That’s why it’s more important than ever that we all show up to the picket line and show NSCAD that the only way out is to come back to the bargaining table!
We know that our demands are reasonable: They are based on what is standard practice at other universities across Halifax. We have shown our willingness to compromise toward getting a fair deal, and we encourage NSCAD to come back to the table and to do the work of bargaining in good faith.
Until then, we will continue the strike!
In the meantime, you can email NSCAD Admin directly and tell them to come back to the table.