The Executive Committee of the Brandon University Faculty Association (BUFA) announced this evening that the BUFA Membership has ratified the tentative agreement reached following a 45 day strike.

The margin of acceptance was 93 percent.

The four year agreement features salary increases of 1.0%, 1.5%, 3.0% and 3.0%, plus annual increments. As well, the salary floors and ceilings will be increased by one step effective April 1, 2011. The Professional Development Allowance has been increased to $1,800 per year, and there have been increases in the travel and meal allowances.

In addition, any savings from the annual unfunded pension liability special payments will be distributed one-third to BUFA members, one-third to student bursaries, and one-third to the University Operating Budget, over the life of the contract.

Several important changes in contract language were achieved, including: an entitlement for research dedicated days for Professional Associates, restrictions on technologically mediated courses, the right of first refusal for sessional instructors, a strengthening of the non-discrimination article, and a revision of the provisions applying to coaches, the Athletic Director and the Athletic Therapist.

BUFA represents approximately 240 full-time, part-time, and sessional employees at Brandon University – including Professors, Librarians, Professional Associates, Instructional Associates, and Administrative Associates.