U of M classes to continue as strike by academic staff averted

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This article was published 08/03/2025 (248 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Students at the University of Manitoba will be going to classes next week after a potential strike by academic staff was averted early Saturday morning.

The University of Manitoba Faculty Association reached a tentative agreement with the university’s administration just past the union’s deadline of Friday at 11:59 p.m.

“I am delighted that we were able to arrive at a tentative agreement that improves our members’ working conditions without disrupting our students’ education,” UMFA president Erik Thomson said in a statement. He didn’t release any details about the settlement.

Similarly, Laurie Schnarr, vice-provost (students) said in a message to students that “there will be no labour disruption.

“This is great news for our community, as it ensures all classes, labs, and academic activities will continue without interruption. We know that the uncertainty of the past few weeks has been difficult for many of you, and we appreciate your patience.”

A statement from the university’s administration said the “agreement reflects our commitment to supporting a fair and competitive deal for faculty members while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the university.”

The union had already decided to push strike action back until Tuesday if it didn’t come to an agreement on Friday night.

Key issues in the contract negotiations included having child care spaces available on campus for members and equity policies.

Members will receive details about the settlement next week and vote on the deal on March 13.