Capilano University classes suspended, strike action underway

All classes at North Vancouver’s Capilano University are suspended as of Tuesday, as some unionized support workers at the university continue strike action.

In a statement posted to the university’s website and social media channels in the morning, the university says updates on classes will be provided to students through their emails.

The university says the sides have been in negotiations for a new collective agreement since May 25, 2022, to no avail, however, it is “hopeful that a negotiated settlement with MoveUP Local 378 can be reached soon.”

In a statement provided to CityNews, the university notes as of June 6, the Capilano Faculty Association has joined MoveUp’s strike in solidarity, and “as a result, student classes, activities and events on campus are unable to run as scheduled until further notice.”

The university says the union has so far rejected a new agreement, “over the single issue of remote work.” It says the offered agreement also included a wage increase of 12-13 per cent which was rejected, and after a strike notice, picketing began on May 17.

“Of primary issue to MoveUP is the union’s position that the collective agreement should include language enabling individuals to file grievances relating to remote work decisions of managers, with ultimate resolution handled by a third party. Remote work arrangements have been discussed across the public sector in this round of negotiations; however, the language proposed by MoveUP at this time is inconsistent with the common approach and has the potential to compromise service delivery at the University,” CapU said.

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While a return to class is not yet determined, the university says its spring convocation will go as planned.

“Our graduates have worked hard. We look forward to celebrating their academic success, June 7–9, through ceremonies that honour their achievements,” the university said.

In a statement Tuesday, MoveUp says the strike action commenced after “three weeks of strategic job action where the university refused to return to the bargaining table.”

Strikes and pickets will also be held at the university’s campus on the Sunshine Coast, along with its two North Vancouver locations.

“Going on a full-scale strike was not a decision our members took lightly, but unfortunately the employer has forced our hand with their continued refusal to return to the bargaining table,” said MoveUP Vice-President Christy Slusarenko.

“Our members understand that remote work is an equity issue, and they want to know the university is committed to equity and supporting workers’ rights by putting this language directly into the collective agreement.”

The union says with the university refusing to include language in the agreement to give members the ability to seek grievances if the employer does “not live up to their obligation,” it means “the university does not truly believe in remote work being an equity issue or an important part of workers’ rights.”

MoveUp represents more than 12,000 workers primarily in B.C., across public and private institutions.