FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions from undergraduate students in the event of a strike

1.            If the union decides to go on strike, will McMaster remain open?

Yes. McMaster University will remain open should the union decide to strike. Classes will continue as scheduled, although some class locations and logistics may change. Some tutorials and labs may be affected.  Students will be contacted by their course instructors with as much advance notice as possible and should check for messages on their course’s Avenue to Learn page. Campus will remain open and services and supports such as libraries, the Student Wellness Centre, athletics and food services will continue to be provided to our campus community.

2.            Who would be on strike?

CUPE 3906, Unit 1 represents part-time Teaching Assistants and Research Assistants (who hold a research assistantship in lieu of a teaching assistantship) at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. All other university employees are expected to remain on the job should CUPE 3906, Unit 1 decide to strike.

3.            How can I stay updated on this situation?

Updates will be shared on Daily News and through the university’s social media channels. Graduate students should also continue to monitor their McMaster email accounts for updates.  Specific information about each course will appear on Avenue to Learn.

4.            What happens if I miss a class or I am late for lecture, lab, tutorial or a test because I can’t get onto campus due to pickets?

Should the union decide to strike, you should give yourself additional time to get to and from campus. Should you miss a graded course component such as a test because of delays getting to campus, check your course outline and Avenue to Learn for information on missed work from your instructor and contact your instructor if you are still unsure. You also have the option of using your MSAF self-report on Mosaic or contact your Associate Dean’s Office for additional or extended absences.

For more information, please see the following university policy, Rights and Responsibilities of Undergraduate Students During Work Stoppages That Substantially Disrupt Academic Activities.

5.            Will the strike impact examination schedules or formats?

You should assume that your exams will continue to be held as planned unless you receive other information directly from your instructor through Avenue to Learn and other communication platforms used in your course. It is a student’s responsibility to be aware of changes and you should check each course page on at least a daily basis. Note that deadlines will not be moved earlier as a result of strike action. Please remember to leave extra commuting time to get to exams. In the unfortunate instance that you miss an exam, you must contact your Associate Dean’s office to arrange for a deferred exam in the winter term.

6.            Will practicums, internships and co-op placements continue during a strike?

Yes, they continue during a strike.

7.            What services and supports are available to students who may need them?
The Student Wellness Centre will continue to offer its normal services, including counselling and student supports.

 Information for Teaching Assistants and Research Assistants

1. How does a strike impact me if I am both a student and a TA or RA in lieu of TA? 

Students who hold positions as Teaching Assistants or Research Assistants would not see any changes to their status as students. You would be expected to continue attending scheduled classes and exams and to complete coursework by posted deadlines.

2.            If the union calls a strike, what are my rights as a TA or RA in lieu of TA?  

The university respects your rights as a member of a bargaining unit, which includes your right to participate in a legal strike. You also have a right to choose to continue working and to not participate in a strike.

3.            What if I need services and supports?

Supports and resources normally available to you as a student would continue to be offered in the event of a strike, including counselling and student supports through the Student Wellness Centre. In your role as a Teaching Assistants or Research Assistant, the university would continue to ensure you have access to the Employee & Family Assistance Program, regardless of whether you choose to participate in a strike. There are also additional resources available online through Employee Health, Safety & Wellbeing.

4.            What if I have other employment on campus?

All other university employees are expected to remain on the job should CUPE 3906, Unit 1 decide to strike. If you are employed in any university role other than as a TA or RA (in lieu), that employment is expected to continue uninterrupted. Please contact your supervisor if you are concerned about getting to work.