******FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*****BUFA CONDUCTS STRIKE VOTE September 11, 2008 BUFA CONDUCTS STRIKE VOTEThe Executive Committee of the Brandon University Faculty Association (BUFA) announced today that a strike vote would be conducted amongst BUFA members. The announcement was made at a special general membership meeting held late this afternoon. Contract negotiations between the Brandon University Faculty Association (BUFA) and Brandon University's (BU) Board of Governors began on April 25. The current Collective Agreement, which was concluded with the assistance of mediator Arne Peltz in 2005 after a positive strike vote by BUFA members, expired on March 31. In commenting on this development, BUFA President Bruce Forrest said, " The BUFA Executive has concluded that negotiations have reached the point where a strike vote has become necessary." "BUFA remains committed to achieving a fair and equitable settlement at the negotiating table, without having to resort to Job Action," Forrest added. According to BUFA Bargaining Committee Spokesperson Joe Dolecki, four major outstanding issues remain to be resolved. "These issues include salaries/benefits, pensions, workload, and a significant language issue relating to a BU policy change affecting working conditions of our members," he said. The strike vote is being conducted over a ten-day period in accordance with provisions of Manitoba's Labour Relations Act. Results of the vote are expected to be released on September 23. BUFA represents approximately 230 full-time, part-time, and sessional employees at Brandon University - including Professors, Librarians, Instructional Associates, and Administrative Associates. -- 30 -- For Further Information Contact: Joe Dolecki, BUFA Chief Negotiator - 727-9749
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