MUALA Submits its Intent to Bargain

Dear Members,

On May 14, 2019, McMaster University Academic Librarians’ Association (MUALA) submitted notice of its intent to bargain with the Employer.  

Based on the availability of both bargaining teams, MUALA has confirmed six meeting dates ahead of the expiration of the current agreement on July 31, 2019. Our first meeting is scheduled for May 21, 2019, with further dates scheduled in July. MUALA is optimistic that significant progress can be made in these meetings, but the team is fully prepared to bargain past expiration should the need arise.

Members will receive bulletins following each meeting with updates on the progress of negotiations. All-member meetings will be scheduled throughout the course of bargaining for the discussion of key issues.

MUALA’s submission package was founded on your input. Thanks to your participation in surveys, consultations, and group discussions over the past year, the Negotiating Committee was empowered to construct a series of proposals that represent the diverse needs of our membership. We will be proposing language that seeks improvements in key areas and adds clarity to existing structures. While we recognize the difficulties of collective bargaining in the current political climate, our unity is our strength.

MUALA is fortunate to have an articulate and dedicated bargaining team negotiating on its behalf.  Representing both library systems and a diversity of professional experience, MUALA’s Bargaining Team comprises:

  • Myron Groover, Archives and Rare Books Librarian, Mills Library (Chief Bargaining Officer)
  • Andrew Colgoni, Services Librarian, Thode Library
  • Neera Bhatnagar, Head of Systems and Public Services, Health Sciences Library

We look forward to working with the employer on the collective goal of creating a strong and useful Agreement that serves the interests of both our Membership and McMaster University.

On behalf of the MUALA Executive Committee,

Jack Young

Secretary, MUALA