By Jessica Lepp

TRUFA and TRU enter mediated talks

Jan 15, 2016 | 11:19 AM

KAMLOOPS — They’re still miles apart but both the Thompson Rivers University Faculty Association at the employer have begun mediated talks today.

After 11 months of bargaining with little movement TRUFA who launched job action Thursday, organized a rally this morning drawing support from other local labour unions.

WATCH ABOVE: Updated story by Reporter Jessica Lepp
 

A harmonious group of faculty and supporters gathered outside TRU’s Clock Tower this morning calling for greater power when it comes to academic decision making.

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After almost a year of bargaining – TRU’s Faculty Association which consists of 650 members says it’s calling for significant changes to the way the university funds front line education programs to support students.

TRUFA’s President Tom Friedman says, “we want to have full faculty say in what creates a good learning environment for students. Student numbers in classes is also a key issue.”

Among the numerous unions standing in solidarity, is The Kamloops Thompson Teachers association which is familiar with crowded classrooms.

KTTA President David Komljenovic says, “I look at TRU faculty and it reminds me of a year and a half ago when we were on strike. The same issues were on table. They want greater academic freedom and decision making powers. It doesn’t come down to compensation. These are really the issues that effect education of students here at TRU.”

TRUFA and the university have entered mediation and could remain at the bargaining table throughout the weekend.

The VP of Administration and Finance Matt Milovick says, “the nervousness I certainly understand. I’ve worked at other institutions that have gone through this with prolonged strikes and it’s a very unfortunate thing for a student to experience. From the administration side we are optomistic we can avoid a strike and job action through mediation.”

The employer says there’s a great divide when it comes to salaries and wages.

“With respect to money, we’re far apart in terms of their October 20th proposal, we’re about 23-million-dollars apart just in the first year. According to the B.C. bargaining mandate we’re offering 1%. Our position is consistent with other deals done in the province.The union is asking for 11.8% just in the first year,” says Milovick.

TRUFA admits it’s willing to moderate certain bargaining positions but says it’s dependent on negotiations over the weekend.

Friedman says, “if we don’t come to a deal, we’re leaving opportunies open. Our preference is to get a negotiated settlement without further job action.”

The union has set up porta potties near the entrance of TRU in the event of a full scale strike but says they’re hopeful they won’t have to be used.