More than 10,000 full-time college support staff represented by OPSEU/SEFPO are on strike across Ontario’s 24 public colleges, including at nearby institutions such as Loyalist, Fleming and Durham colleges.
Union officials announced the strike as of 12:01 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, saying picket lines will go up on campuses across the province starting early Thursday morning.
Meanwhile, area colleges remain open, and officials say they’re working to avoid disruptions for students where possible.
In Peterborough, MBC spoke with President of OPSEU Local 351 Marcia Steeves.
Steeves adds there has not been any transparency on how cuts are being made.
Fleming’s student administrative council says it is ready to help students navigate the uncertainty. SAC also says it will remain open during the labour disruption and continue to provide services, advocacy and events wherever possible, with adjustments as needed.
In a brief statement online, Loyalist College says all its campuses remain open, and classes and academic programming will continue as scheduled. However, officials are suggesting that students and visitors should allow for extra time when travelling to campuses as delays may occur.
Loyalist has also a frequently asked questions (FAQ) page set up online where the college says people can find answers to commonly asked questions and updates as new information becomes available.
At Durham College, again, campuses remain open with classes continuing as normal as faculty are not on strike, echo officials, while explaining support staff roles range from technicians and technologists, to clerks, assistants, analysts, facilities staff, student advisors, and field placement officers.
In a notice online, the college states people should plan for delays as staff picket outside Oshawa and Whitby campuses – officials also ask people remain calm and respectful during the work stoppage.
Staff do note that some student services, admissions, technical support, facilities and other administrative operations may experience some disruption like reduced hours or delays amid the strike.
“We are committed to supporting you and minimizing any disruption to your studies and overall student experience,” says the college online, adding that any changes to services impacting students will be communicated via the Durham College website, email and on social media.
(Written by: Jordan Mercier, with files from Noah Lorusso and Sarah Hyatt)