Dear University of Toronto Staff Appointed Unit Members,
We know the notice from the new President of the University of Toronto, Melanie Woodin, may have members feeling uneasy, confused, and frustrated.
From the Local’s perspective, this notice does not prescribe a mandate that everyone must be on campus 5 days a week. The notice also does not prescribe a centrally mandated minimum number of days of work on campus. Our current Collective Agreement has language specific to alternative work arrangements (Article 24:05) that cannot be unilaterally changed by the University. President Woodin’s notice also notes the University’s “commitment to considering alternative work arrangements”.
We will work to get more clarity about the new direction being taken by the University and will provide members with updates as they become available.
If you have a current alternative work arrangement, President Woodin’s notice should not impact that arrangement. If your manager changes your current AWA part way through its term please contact info@usw1998.ca.
As current alternative work arrangements expire and as you prepare to submit a new alternative work arrangement request, please feel free to consult the Local at info@usw1998.ca.
In solidarity,
John & Tamara
John Ankenman (he/him)
USW Local 1998 President & Victoria University Unit President
Tamara Vickery (she/her)
USW Local 1998 Vice-President & Staff Appointed Unit President