The union representing the University of Windsor’s Special Constables says it has agreed to extend the collective bargaining agreement for the week, to ensure student safety for the first week back.
Local 444 issued an update Sunday night, shortly before the agreement between its 26 special constables and the University was set to expire at midnight.
Unifor Local 2458, which represents 16 employees at the Energy Conversion Cente (ECC), has also agreed to extend their agreement.
Unifor noted the sides remain far apart on key issues, including wages and pensions.
"The University has been clear about the financial pressures they’re facing, from legislative changes to declining international student enrollment, and we understand those realities," read the statement. "But the problem is, they’ve been trying to make our members pay for that shortfall."
Despite the lack of progress in negotiations, Local 444 says considering the importance of the first week of classes, members will remain on the job for this week.
"Instead of walking out at midnight, we’ve agreed to extend the collective agreements and remain on the job, keeping the campus safe during this critical period," read the statement. "This extension also allows us to meet next Friday with the University’s new president, who may be able to change the course of these talks. At that point, a new deadline will be set."
Fall orientation for U of W law and nursing students begins on Tuesday, with the first day of class on Thursday.
More updates to come.