Mount Saint Vincent University and Saint Mary’s University have reportedly suspended hundreds of classes after contract negotiations with part-time faculty represented by CUPE reached impasses. MSVU said that 337 classes are affected, while SMU said that approximately 300 classes are affected. Part-time faculty at both universities have been without a contract since last year and are demanding higher compensation and job security, according to CBC News. CUPE said that part-time faculty at Saint Mary’s are among the lowest paid in the country. CBC News reports that the strike comes amid significant pressures facing institutions in NS, including dropping international enrolment, capped tuition rates, and limited funding increases from the provincial government. Both universities indicated that they are open to further negotiations.
