York Strike Almost Done

Well, looks like Dalton McGuinty has decided to impose back-to-work legislation for CUPE 3903. This is what the York University administration has wanted all along, from what I can tell. The union striked 81 days, the administration only bargained and negotiated 11 of those days, continually backing away from the table. They wanted the government to intervene. The NDP is delaying the bill, but it looks like things are going to get harsh for CUPE 3903.

The NDP, again, has stuck to it's principles. As an undergraduate student I stand with them. I plan a possible academic career myself and know the quality of education, as a citizen of this province and country is sliding down while tuition fees rise. This problem will only fester. Back-to-work legislation solves nothing in the long-run. Let us hope the next Ontario NDP leader is as principled as Howard Hampton.

As for York U, there is going to be much tension on the campus in the next few months. I don't know what the next step for the union will be. Let's hope they can get something out of this, but I cant say what. Government has no right to intervene, this sets a dangerous precedent. Truly, I have seen a disgusting display by some of the undergrads, solely blaming the union and the YFS. There have been death-threats made against union members, vandalizing against the union and YFS. I have never seen such a disgusting display of immaturity and ignorance in my life.

Classes are starting again inevitably and I got work to do, it seems.