I note in media reports that following your meeting with university President Sean Riley, there has been ‘some’ movement in the process in that you will be soon be returning to the table to resume formal negotiations; and we wish you good luck and successful bargaining.

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Message of Solidarity to St. Francis Xavier Association of University Teachers (StFXAUT) President Peter McInnis from Nova Scotia Federation of Labour President Rick Clarke:

 

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To: Peter McInnis, president of the St. Francis Xavier Association of University Teachers

 

Dear Brother McInnis:

 

I note in media reports that following your meeting with university President Sean Riley, there has been ‘some’ movement in the process in that you will be soon be returning to the table to resume formal negotiations; and we wish you good luck and successful bargaining.

 

We realize that although you are heading back to the table, it is no easy task before you; for as you have stated and cautioned on numerous occasions that the university and the faculty association remain very far apart on many of the crucial issues.

 

Given the important role you and your members play in contributing to the success of the University and the future of our young people, thus to the future of our province; we are hopefully your employer will recognize this valued role and a take steps that would bring the parties closer together.

 

There is great provincial, national and international respect for the role the university plays in developing countries to raise the education, training and living standards for others – they should have clear understanding of the desire and need for fair wages, benefits and job security for their staff.

 

Regretfully, I was unable to free up my schedule to be able to be with you today but wanted to pass on our support in your strike and for your upcoming bargaining.

 

Although I personally could not be there today, there are representatives of our Officers and Executive, the CLC and our affiliates; as a show of the importance of unity and solidarity.

 

We would appreciate it if you would pass on our message of support and solidarity to your members and feel free to contact us if we may be able to provide further support.

 

In solidarity,

RICK CLARKE
President

Nova Scotia Federation of Labour
3700 Kempt Rd., Suite 225
Halifax, N.S., B3K 4X8
902.454.6735 (phone)
902.454.7671 (fax)
www.nsfl.ns.ca