The faculty, librarians, and counsellors at Ontario's public colleges could be on strike as of Thursday, January 9.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) issued a five-day strike notice Friday afternoon.
The union and the College Employer Council will meet in non-binding mediation on January 6 and 7.
The union said it is looking for less precarious contracts for faculty and wage increases for its members.
"Any labour action will disrupt our lives – it’s a sacrifice for a better future, not a holiday. This is not a decision we have made lightly. It is a necessity, forced by the failed stewardship of college executives, CEOs, and out-of-touch politicians eroding quality education and piloting the college system into the present crisis," said a bargaining bulletin issued by the bargaining team.
The 15,000 members, represented by OPSEU, have been without a contract since October 1, 2024. The majority of members, 79 per cent, voted in favour of strike action later that month.