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PSAC Negotiations Updates and FAQs

Dec. 6, 2021
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Updated: Feb. 24, 2022

Wilfrid Laurier University and the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) representing Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) have been bargaining their first collective agreement since Nov. 2020.

The University remains committed to reaching an agreement that is fair and equitable for both parties, and in the best interests of the institution and its students.

For more information and updates please continue to visit this page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of Graduate Teaching Assistants?

Graduate teaching assistants (GTAs) are also registered graduate students. The role of a GTA is to assist academic units in delivering their teaching mission. Teaching assistantships offer graduate students the chance to support the learning of undergraduate students while building skills that will help them develop in their academic careers. GTAs are supervised by Laurier faculty and their work may include:
  • Assisting in the grading of tests, papers, lab reports and final exams.
  • Assisting faculty in course development and/or course renewal.
  • Conducting tutorial or lab sessions.
  • Presenting one or more lectures in a class.
  • Supervising field trips
  • Proctoring final examinations

Which employees are represented by PSAC?

Approximately 436 Graduate Teaching Assistants falling under the scope of the bargaining unit in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo and the City of Brantford.

What is the current state of contract negotiations between the university and PSAC?

The Graduate Teaching Assistants bargaining unit was certified by the Labour Relations Board to be represented by the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), effective Dec. 12, 2019. The parties commenced bargaining the first collective agreement in Nov. 2020 and have met 21 times. Conciliation took place Dec. 9, 2021 and Jan. 28, 2022 with a further conciliation date planned for Mar. 7, 2022.

What is conciliation? Is it a normal part of the bargaining process?

Conciliation is a normal part of the collective bargaining process and allows the parties to engage a neutral third party to assist them in coming to an agreement. The Ministry of Labour conciliation officer’s role is to act as a facilitator and assist the two sides in reaching a settlement.

When will conciliation happen?

Conciliation took place Dec. 9, 2021 and Jan. 28, 2022 with a further conciliation date planned for Mar. 7, 2022.

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