Fight against lay-offs and hiring freezes
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, some universities and colleges have approached academic staff associations and other campus unions to discuss possible cost-cutting measures. Associations will need to analyze carefully the financial assumptions being made by the administration, while recognizing the situation remains very fluid.
Where bona fide financial difficulties can be demonstrated, associations will need to consider measures that have the most limited impact on members’ rights, security of employment and equity goals. For example, most institutions have developed equity, diversity and inclusion plans in light of changes to the Canada Research Chairs program.[8] As well, some associations have negotiated for specific hires of under-represented groups. These plans must not be put on hold, and all efforts must be made to avoid lay-offs and hiring freezes.
Endnote
8 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, Canada Research Chairs Program, updated September 2018.