The Dalhousie Faculty Association (DFA) says it has made major concessions at the bargaining table and is urging the Board of Governors to accept its latest proposal to bring an end to the faculty lockout.
Talks resumed Friday with the help of a conciliator.
The DFA says it adjusted its return-to-work plan so classes can resume quickly while still giving faculty the preparation time they need.
DFA President Dave Westwood says it is difficult to accept the Board’s argument that the proposal is unaffordable, given that faculty have already lost more than $10 million in salary and benefits during the lockout.
He says the Board could end the disruption immediately by agreeing to the deal on the table.
The union is also calling on Dalhousie President Kim Brooks to press the Board to authorize a settlement.
At the same time, pressure on Brooks is mounting outside negotiations. An online petition calling for her resignation has gathered growing support, with recent signers accusing the university of damaging its reputation, disrespecting faculty, and undermining student learning.
The petition points to Dalhousie’s own strategic plan, arguing that the lockout runs counter to commitments to provide a transformative learning experience and foster a welcoming, supportive culture.
The DFA says its proposal represents the best possible outcome for students under the circumstances, and insists the Board has the ability to end the lockout immediately.
