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Important clarification: Talks have not been "suspended" by the mediator. CUPE 3903 has requested a continuation of talks on Tuesday, December 2nd. In the meantime our bargaining team is using the time to streamline proposals with a view to accelerating progress towards an agreement. Likewise, we look forward to the University making a meaningful shift by substantively addressing the Union's priorities.

The hostile tone of York University's communications is cause for concern for all members of the university community and the public. The continued and misleading use of mid-negotiation numbers and figures only serves to create confusion and an antagonistic environment which can only undermine the speed with which a settlement can be reached. York University students, undergraduates and graduates alike, should not be treated as pawns in cynical public relations strategies. Students' real interests, the quality and accessibility of education in the classroom, should be driving York to negotiate energetically at the bargaining table rather than engaging in destructive rhetoric in the press. CUPE 3903 continues to be committed to reaching a fair and equitable settlement with the University in the shortest amount of time.

Students who are concerned about the effects of the University's stance on their education should make their views known to President Shoukri, and Alex Bylik, Director of Media Relations.

Mamdouh Shoukri, President and Vice-Chancellor (mshoukri@yorku.ca)

Office of the President of York University
Tel: 416-736-5200 / Fax: 416-736-5641

Alex Bilyk, Director of Media Relations at York University

Tel: 416-736-5603 / email: bilyk@yorku.ca