After negotiating throughout the weekend, with the assistance of a mediator, your bargaining team made some significant ground on many of the key issues that resulted in the strong strike vote you delivered on January 15.
However, the priority issue regarding the utilization of the instructional assistant 2s (I.A. 2s) remains unresolved and we were unable to come to a conclusion. The employer has made it clear through their actions that they are committed to increasing the roles and usage of I.A. 2s, severely undermining the job security of NASA members.
This issue is now our number one priority and we are determined to gain stronger protections against the erosion of our work and our professional dedication to instruction of NAIT students.
As of Sunday (January 25) evening negotiations broke off with the employer unwilling to respond meaningfully to NASA’s latest proposal. Therefore, we are at a significant impasse; but willing to return to the table at any time if the employer is willing to seriously address our concerns. We still believe a negotiated agreement is possible and we will continue to work hard to achieve this. As stated earlier, significant ground has been made on the other priority issues that were identified in previous updates and communications.
In the meantime, with the January 30 deadline, as determined by your bargaining team and NASA executive, approaching, preparations for potential strike are ongoing. Further details will be provided in the coming days and we encourage you to keep an eye open for email updates and to regularly visit the NASA website for updates.
In related news:
- NAIT has now been given authority by the Labour Relations Board to serve 72 hour lock-out notice if they decide to do so. This is not unusual following a strike vote. So, although it is unlikely that NAIT will lock-out NASA members, it is a possibility we must prepare for in the same way we are preparing for a strike.
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Expect messaging from NASA very soon about how strike pay will be administered during a strike or lock-out. Please ensure we have your personal email via this link
- Expect messaging soon on strike logistics, such as picket locations, times, and other things you will need to be aware of in preparation and during a strike or lock-out
We want to thank you for your ongoing support during these very challenging times. We are making progress because of the strong stand you have all taken. There is still a lot of heavy lifting to do; but when we all work together and support each other we will reach a successful outcome that benefits NASA members and the student population we are dedicated to serving.
In Solidarity,
Shauna MacDonald (she/her/hers)
President, NAIT Academic Staff Association