Tentative agreement reached

A tentative settlement on a new collective agreement between the Dalhousie Faculty Association and the Board of Governors has been reached.

In a joint statement issued Monday, both sides recommend approval to their respective constituents.

“We are very pleased we have been able to come together and reach this tentative settlement,” says Charles Crosby, spokesperson for Dalhousie University. “We are hopeful for a positive ratification vote and look forward to continuing to work together on behalf of our students.”

Dalhouse Student Union President Mike Tipping said he was relieved to hear the news.

"I'm very glad that this has been resolved — a  job action would have hurt students the most," he says. "I look forward to seeing the agreement and gauging the financial aspects on students and services."

According to the statement, the DFA negotiating team will recommend approval by its executive committee on Wednesday. Following this step, a ratification vote with the full membership will be held.

The board’s negotiating team will also recommend approval to their executive and then take the tentative agreement to the Board of Governors meeting on February 19 for ratification. It’s anticipated the process will be concluded by the end of February.

The Dalhousie Faculty Association represents teaching and research faculty members, librarians, instructors and counsellors at Dalhousie. The two sides have been negotiating with the assistance of a conciliator appointed by the Minister of Environment and Labour since January 7.

The details of the agreement will be released following the conclusion of the ratification process.