Part-Time Faculty at Saint Mary’s University Face Strike Decision

Part-time faculty at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax are preparing for the final day of conciliation talks scheduled for Monday. After nearly a year of negotiations, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) 3912, representing approximately 150 workers, has indicated that discussions have reached an impasse.

In a recent vote, a striking 87 percent of the union members expressed readiness to strike if necessary. A primary concern for the union is job security. They are advocating for guaranteed work for part-time instructors who have been teaching for at least three consecutive years. This demand highlights the precarious nature of part-time employment in higher education, which has become a pressing issue across institutions.

CUPE 3912 also represents part-time instructors at Dalhousie University and Mount Saint Vincent University, both of which are currently in the process of negotiating their own contracts. The union’s push for improved conditions reflects a broader trend in academia, where many part-time faculty members seek more stability and recognition for their contributions.

As the final day of conciliation approaches, the potential for a strike looms, raising concerns about the impact on students and the academic calendar. The situation underscores the challenges faced by part-time faculty, who often juggle multiple teaching positions across different institutions.

The outcome of these negotiations will be closely monitored, not only by the involved parties but also by other academic institutions facing similar issues. Faculty and students alike are keenly aware that the results will set a precedent for future negotiations in the sector.

This report was first published by The Canadian Press on September 21, 2025.