Ontario college support staff strike hits two weeks; mediator set to join talks Friday after employer calls union demands unreasonable.

Conestoga Strike Enters Second Week Amid Mediation Talks

Picket Lines Continue Across Ontario

More than 10,000 full-time college support staff, including over 700 at Conestoga College, have been on strike since Sept. 11. The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) says the walkout aims to secure better wages, benefits, and job security.

Employer Pushes Back on Union Demands

The College Employer Council (CEC), representing Ontario’s 24 public colleges, has dismissed the union’s proposals as “unreasonable” and “impossible.” Graham Lloyd, CEC CEO, said Monday that mediation may be the only way forward, given the scope of OPSEU’s demands.

Mediation Set for Friday

Despite no formal request from OPSEU, the CEC confirmed Wednesday it will attend government-led mediation later this week. The employer expressed hope that a fair settlement could balance employee needs with the long-term sustainability of the college system.

Disruption Felt on Campuses

While classes remain open, Conestoga College acknowledged service disruptions. Child-care centres at the Doon campus and Driftwood Park facility are closed, and some labs and student services have been paused. The college said contingency plans include reassigning non-striking employees and adjusting workloads to ensure safety.

Union Defends Support Staff Roles

Local union leaders argue support staff form the backbone of campus operations. Vikki Poirier, president of OPSEU Local 238, called Lloyd’s remarks about “simple tasks” degrading, stressing that staff responsibilities extend far beyond minor duties. Faculty representatives also voiced concerns over safety, noting that technicians’ absence may put students at risk.

Key Points of Contention

The CEC outlined four union demands it considers unreasonable:

• A three-year freeze on college mergers or closures

• A three-year guarantee of no staff reductions

• A ban on contracting out services such as snow removal

• Restrictions on managers or faculty performing basic tasks

Union negotiators rejected this characterization, accusing the CEC of focusing on public relations instead of bargaining.

Students Caught in the Middle

The strike has left students navigating disruptions in labs, technical environments, and child-care services. Faculty and union leaders say the work stoppage underlines the essential role support staff play in student learning. Conestoga’s administration maintains safety remains a top priority while awaiting resolution at the mediation table.

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