Figured this might be a good read to some people; This is the email that I received as a T.A.:
Dear TAs and RAs, You do important work and McMaster recognizes your contributions to the University.
CUPE Local 3906, Unit 1 says “a strike/lock out is a real possibility” beginning on October 31st.
McMaster will not lock you out. A work stoppage will happen only if CUPE calls a strike.
We believe a deal is within reach and we’re eager to get back to the table on October 29 and 30.
* * * * *
Our contract offer reflects the important role you play. Here are the highlights:
Wages
You will get a raise of $1.30 per hour: Class A = $ 39.30 Class B= $22.05.
TAs will be eligible for the Class A rate once they have their 1st undergraduate degree.
Benefits
McMaster pays $150,000 each year into your benefit plan, that’s an increase of 50% since 2005. The number of TAs has remained stable during that time.
McMaster also pays two-thirds of your monthly dental plan.
Workload
New protections so you won’t have to work past the end of the academic term and a better way to assign your work hours.
Job Security
Better job guarantees and improved flexibility.
* * * * *
We remain focused on working hard to reach a deal that’s fair and sustainable.
You can read more about the offer at:
http://www.mcmaster.ca/opr/labour_relations/cupe_2.html
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Short version: CUPE/Unions Suck, and I'm not sure how many T.A.s will actually be striking. I think you'll find most of them continuing to work.