AU tables monetary offer of 7.5% over four years
The AUFA and the AU Bargaining team met on April 15th for another bargaining session. As agreed, AU tabled its monetary offer. While we made some progress on non-monetary issues, AU’s offer on wages is way below our expectations.
Here is what happened:
During the first part of the bargaining meeting, pending non-monetary items (AU’s so-called “low-hanging fruits”) were discussed. This part was productive, with good discussion over items such as support persons and grievance. There are ongoing proposals and counter proposals that made us feel not too far apart from each other. We also had a fruitful presentation about the Blue Cross benefits plan, and the process for negotiating improvements.
During the second part of our bargaining conversation, AU did table their monetary proposal, but not before a message from the Board of Governors, which underlined global economic uncertainty, external pressures, as well as “you will not find layoffs or rollbacks in this proposal”. They then proceeded to offer the following: 2% July 1, 2024; 2% July 1, 2025; 1.75% July 1, 2026; and 1.75% July1, 2027 – June 30, 2028.
The AUFA bargaining team considers this wage increase offer to be unacceptable and disrespectful, as it doesn’t even come close to inflation, let alone the standards set by the rest of the public sector.
Why does this offer fall short?
It fails to meet the recent rate of inflation. With current inflation rates and the cost of living skyrocketing these increases represent a net loss in purchasing power.
It does not align with other trends in the public sector. Settlements at CUPE and UNA show increases of 15-20% over four years, and negotiations at ATA show a similar pattern emerging. A future blog post will explore patterns around the province, and the Alberta Government’s system of using secret mandates in bargaining.
No equity adjustments are reflected in this offer. The offer does nothing to address wage compression or inequities for lower-paid members. AU’s alleged commitment to equity has resulted in no language surrounding equity in their entire proposal to AUFA.
Across Alberta, unions who have gone or strike or who have shown a strong willingness by the membership to strike have received stronger deals. AUFA will explore and present these numbers in a future blog post so members can get a good sense of where a final deal may lay.
It is the time for you to get involved. Here is how you can help:
Attend the upcoming town halls (details soon) where we will provide you with this information and make your voice heard about it.
Be ready to take action - AU needs to understand we won’t accept crumbs.
This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about respect and recognition for the critical work we do. As it is right now, AU’s offer shows no respect and recognition for the people who keep this university running.
In solidarity,
The AUFA Bargaining Team