Faculty Association at Ontario Tech University to strike beginning Thursday, February 10

Durham College’s (DC) campus partner, Ontario Tech University, has been negotiating with their Faculty Association (FA), which represents the university’s tenured, tenure-track, teaching faculty and limited-term faculty members, to reach a new collective agreement. Yesterday, the FA announced their decision to strike effective Thursday, February 10.

The FA at Ontario Tech University has advised picketing activity will begin at the entrances of the Oshawa campus as early as Thursday at 11 a.m., which could delay access to and from campus for DC students and employees. Whitby campus and DC Employment Centres are not affected by this labour action.

Impacts to the DC community include:

  • Picket lines – members of the FA at Ontario Tech University will be legally entitled to establish picket lines at the three main entrances (Conlin Road, Commencement Drive and Founders Gate) of the Oshawa campus. When picket lines are in place, DC students and employees are advised to allow extra time coming to campus, as crossing picket lines may delay entry. Please see below for picket line protocol.
  • Classes – DC classes continue as scheduled.
  • Nursing – Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program – courses, labs and practicums taught by DC faculty will continue as scheduled, however those taught by Ontario Tech Faculty Association members may be paused until further notice. Students will have received an email communication with more information.
  • DC-OT School of Business, IT & Management bridge programs – courses taught by DC instructors will continue as scheduled, however courses taught by Ontario Tech Faculty Association members may be paused until further notice. Impacted students will receive an email communication with more information.
  • Public transit – we anticipate public transit will not cross picket lines and instead will stop at pre-determined, safe and convenient temporary locations northbound and southbound along Simcoe Street outside the campus. Please check the Durham Region Transit (DRT) website for posted detours. DRT Specialized Services will provide its regular service onto campus for those requiring accessible transit.

        Picket line protocol

        DC appreciates that for some of you this may be your first experience crossing a picket line. The fundamental idea is to stay respectful. You may find the following guidelines helpful:

        • Be aware that you are likely going to encounter picket lines at Oshawa campus entrances.
        • Picketers can delay but not prevent access to those looking to enter or leave campus.
        • Leave extra time for crossing picket lines.
        • Remember that picketers are members of our shared campus community who are engaged in a lawful strike. When the strike is over they will return to our community.
        • Expect delays and inconveniences.
        • Operate your vehicle in a safe and lawful manner.

        How to approach a picket line:

        • Approach the line slowly. If you are operating a vehicle, plan your approach to the campus so that you will be making a right-hand turn onto campus. This precaution will prevent you from getting caught in the middle of an intersection or crossing oncoming traffic.
        • When driving or walking on to campus, be prepared to stop and wait until you can safely pass through the picket line.
        • Practice patience, be respectful and remain calm. Picketers may give you information and then allow you to pass.
        • Consider carpooling with fellow students or leaving your car off campus and taking the bus.

        If you encounter difficulties in crossing a picket line please contact security at 905.721.8668 ext. 2400.

        Care and respect should be used at all times. DC will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates to the campus community as additional information becomes available.

        If you are interested in learning more, please visit the Ontario Tech labour relations website.