CUPE strike action: What you need to know for Monday

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The university’s priority is the safety of all community members, including those on the picket lines, and to encourage a culture of respect and understanding. Please be patient as you cross any picket line. 

November 20, 2022

Picket lines are expected at McMaster starting at 7 a.m. Monday November 21st as teaching assistants represented by CUPE Local 3906 (Unit 1) begin their strike action. Anyone coming to campus should expect delays. 

The university’s priority is the safety of all community members, including those on the picket lines, and to encourage a culture of respect and understanding. Please be patient if you cross any picket line. 

CUPE Local 3906, Unit 1, represents about 2,900 part-time Teaching Assistants and Research Assistants (in lieu of TA appointments). We respect the rights of these employees to choose what is best for them. This includes TAs who choose to continue working and offering services to students. 

We understand that this situation will cause concern for many. We encourage everyone to stay up to date on the latest information and guidance by visiting Daily News, the Labour Updates website and McMaster’s main social media channels. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind for Monday: 

  • Campus is open.  
  • Information on how to access campus, including by car, bus, by foot and bike can be found here. Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) passengers will be dropped off and picked up near campus. Go and DART buses will maintain their on-campus services but there could be delays.  
  • Pickets are expected at the entrances at Sterling Street and Cootes Drive – expect delays 
  • All students, staff and faculty have the right to cross the picket line – General information about picket lines and what is permitted can be found here. 
  • Most classes will continue as planned, and exams will continue to be held.  Any modifications will be communicated directly to students from their instructors. More information for undergraduate students and graduate students can be found on Avenue to Learn and on the university’s labour updates website.  
  • Employees are expected to work as usual and to maintain in-person service levels and work delivery. Leaders are encouraged to keep flexibility in mind when possible. All university services, including academic advising, libraries, athletic facilities, residences, food services remain open as normal. 
  • Information regarding events, delivery services and other operational matters can be found here. 
  • Health and wellness remain paramount. Students, faculty and staff who many need extra support can find resources here and through the Student Wellness Centre, in person and virtually. 

On Friday, the university shared information about negotiations to date. Talks were being assisted by a mediator but an impasse was reached.  The university’s offer remains on the table along with an openness to return to the bargaining table at any time.