Updates

Board offers arbitration to resolve DFA labour disruption

Memorandum to faculty and staff from: Grace Jefferies, Vice-President People and Culture

August 27, 2025

Earlier today, the bargaining team representing the Dalhousie Board of Governors extended an invitation to the Dalhousie Faculty Association (DFA) to engage in interest arbitration to reach a new collective agreement. 

The offer is currently with the DFA for consideration. If the DFA agrees to interest arbitration, the Board will end its lockout of DFA members, and the union would conclude strike action. If the DFA does not agree to interest arbitration, the lockout of DFA members and the subsequent strike action taken by the DFA both continue.

Interest arbitration would end the current labour disruption, allow both parties a fair and impartial hearing over compensation issues, and ensure the fall academic term could begin on schedule.  Faculty members would also regain access to their work email, office spaces, and campus buildings.  

Our priority continues to be to supporting our students as they prepare to arrive on campus. Campus services remain available, residences will open for students this week, and communications are being shared with students about impacts on classes and programs. For more information, visit Dalhousie’s Labour Relations website.

Sincerely,

Grace Jefferies 

Vice-President, People and Culture