What steps are being taken to avert a strike?
The Bargaining Committee is working hard to secure an acceptable contract. The negotiations are being assisted by an experienced and respected conciliator.
How will we know if we are going on strike?
The communications committee will send an e-mail message to all members at the e-mail addresses they have provided by 6 a.m. on the strike deadline date. Please check your alternate/home e-mail inbox regularly, in case the administration shuts down our UWindsor accounts. You will also receive a phone call from your picket captain to provide additional information. Please update your contact details through this link.
What is the date of the strike deadline?
TBD
Will we be locked out before the strike is called?
While it is possible, it is very unlikely that the administration will lock us out before we go on strike.
Could the strike be cancelled or postponed beyond the strike deadline?
Our negotiating team may opt to extend the strike deadline to a later date if most issues are agreed upon or resolved during bargaining.
What if I have other questions before we are on strike?
Please direct any questions prior to the strike deadline to the Local 1393 voicemail at 519-253-3000, ext. 1393 or secretary@cupe1393.ca.
Will I be punished for honouring the strike?
The administration cannot discipline members for supporting our union. You have a legal right to be on strike. CUPE will support you in addressing any erroneous action that might be taken by managers.
Will I receive the last week of pay owing to me from the university?
Yes, you should receive this as normal on the payday following the strike deadline.
If I am off on sick leave before the strike, will I continue to be paid?
There are no guarantees; please call Human Resources each morning to let them know you are still sick while the strike is ongoing.
What if I have previously scheduled or am currently on vacation when a strike occurs?
Human Resources has said in previous instances that the administration will honour vacations scheduled in advance of a strike and the employees will receive vacation pay. We will try to ensure a similar provision in the strike protocol we will set with the administration.
Should I participate in the strike even if I am still in the probationary stage of my employment?
Yes, employees on probation should join us on the picket line. There will be no additional consequences for probationary employees.
Do I have to picket if I am on a maternity leave, long-term disability or WSIB?
No. You are not being paid by the university and your payments will continue. Certainly your striking brothers and sisters would welcome any support you choose to give.
Will our health benefits be cancelled while we are on strike?
The administration has agreed to continue our benefits if we strike, and CUPE National will pay the premiums. This applies to the Green Shield health benefits, accidental death, basic and optional life insurance. Members who are currently on long-term disability will continue to receive their benefits. However, no new claims will be accepted while members are on strike.
My internet connection is through the university’s Home Internet plan. Will this plan be disconnected?
No, the plan will not be discontinued, but you may receive a notice from the company that you haven’t paid your bill for the month. We recommend paying any such bill you receive and contacting your provider.
My dependent attends the university on tuition remission. Will this benefit be taken away while on strike?
It’s possible. The administration can do what it chooses when we do not have a contract, although this would be extremely poor employee relations. If it happens please tell your picket captain so the bargaining committee is made aware to address this issue as part of the return to work settlement.
If I have a second job on campus, e.g. sessional instructor, can I cross the picket line to perform that job?
Yes, as long as the job is not a CUPE 1393 position. Please ask the strike headquarters to issue a Picket Line Pass that you can show to picketing members letting them know why you are crossing.
If the strike continues, it is possible I could be in financial hardship. What should I do?
Many financial institutions will allow you to reduce payments or pay only interest charges during a strike. Be sure to complete the Finance Form that is sent out in your Information Package and submit it to all debtholders. If your financial situation becomes troubling, contact the strike headquarters for advice on options available.
How much will I be paid during the strike?
Each member who participates in the strike will be paid $40 per day from the national union, and an additional $10 from the local as long as funds remain. So, if you participate as scheduled, you will receive $250 a week in strike pay.
How will I receive my strike pay?
A cheque is issued bi-weekly and will be distributed by your picket captain. Details will be forthcoming.
Where do I report for strike duty? What time do I report for strike duty?
Your picket captain will contact each member to provide specific information on picket duty.
What do I do if I am unable to picket due to health reasons?
Contact strike headquarters to discuss any accommodations we can make so that you may take part in the strike.
How will you know that I am picketing?
Each member is required to sign in and out for each shift with your picket captain – more information will follow.
What do I do if I am sick during the strike?
Call the strike headquarters to let us know that you are unable to make your shift.
Where is the union office located during the strike?
We have secured a trailer to act as a strike headquarters; it will be located outside the Union House at 856 Sunset Avenue.