University of Windsor Staff Threaten Strike Over Contract Dispute

A potential strike looms for staff at the University of Windsor as union leaders representing special constables and Energy Conversion Centre (ECC) employees warned of action if a deal is not reached before the September 1 deadline. During a press conference on August 25, 2023, at the Local 444 hall, union representatives outlined their concerns over stalled negotiations regarding wages and pensions.

Manny Cardoso, secretary-treasurer of Local 444 and liaison to the University of Windsor Special Constable Service, emphasized the need for a fair agreement. “We’re looking for a fair deal,” he stated. “It’s not an extravagant deal. We’re not looking for massive gains. They’re nominal gains, but to keep our members in line with inflation and everything.” The Local 444 union represents 26 members of the Special Constable Service, previously known as Campus Community Police, which provides around-the-clock security and emergency response on campus.

Union members are feeling “cautiously nervous” as the deadline approaches. Cardoso noted that the university has previously agreed to wage increases with other bargaining units, though he did not specify which unit. “To tell us there’s nothing there and to give another unit money is…a slap in the face,” he remarked.

As preparations for a strike begin, including assigning picket duties and identifying locations, Cardoso mentioned the importance of minimizing disruption for students returning for the fall semester on September 4. “Our goal is not to negatively impact the students,” he said. “But if we have to withdraw our services, we will be setting up pickets, and we will, you know, try to hold those picket lines.”

The ECC, which employs 16 members represented by Local 2458, is also facing similar challenges in negotiations. Mike Kisch, secretary-treasurer of Local 2458, expressed concern over the stalled negotiations. “I have never seen a round of bargaining quite like this, where there are still concessions on the table this late in the game,” he said. The engineers and refrigeration mechanics at the ECC are responsible for maintaining heating, cooling, and hot water systems across the university campus.

Kisch highlighted the critical nature of their work, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when ECC staff operated 24/7 to ensure campus facilities remained functional. “We’re just hoping to get something fair that really recognizes the important, critical work that our members in ECC do,” he added.

With both unions emphasizing the need for reasonable wage increases and better pension terms, the pressure is mounting on the university administration to negotiate a settlement before the deadline. The University of Windsor has yet to respond to media inquiries regarding the situation.

As the weekend approaches, both Cardoso and Kisch reiterated their commitment to staying at the bargaining table, even as the prospect of a work stoppage looms. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the university community as students prepare to return to campus.