In the event of a strike

Well, as many of you probably know, the possibility of a strike is now very real. Here you can see some of the highlights of what we're struggling for: http://tao.ca/~cupe3903/web/?q=node/296#comment-50. Last night, in a six hour marathon meeting, the General Membership of CUPE 3903 turned down the latest deal.

In the event of a strike -- and we won't know for sure if there'll be a strike until midnight tonight -- there will be no tutorials and, I am almost positive, no HUMA 1650 lectures. Also be aware that the university administration might shut down the campus. The Humanities department will be open, however, and you can ask Evy Strong or Rita what this means for you as undergraduates. Also, if you live on campus, please talk to your dorm reps or your program supervisors about what this means for you. I've been told that regular non-teaching services will continue on campus and that some stores in York Lanes will remain open. I'm not sure about pubs and cafeterias, though. Bus services will continue but buses will most likely not cross picket lines (check the TTC website for more info) -- worst cast scenario, you'll have to walk to the nearest bus stop on Keele or the bus stops just on the outskirts of the south entrance heading towards Finch (I'm not sure if Steeles has bus service).

I remain available to you all for any immediate life needs you might have questions about, like safety at night, food, transportation, etc. I'll do everything I can to try and get you connected with the person(s) you'll need to talk to about whatever issue you might have. But please do discuss your issues with your departments, as well.

Note, however, that I won't be able to talk to you directly about any course matters, which would be considered a teaching duty and a violation of the possible strike.

Your papers, due next Friday at midnight via email, will be extended by each working day of the strike (i.e., Mon-Fri.). This goes for all other due dates, like the mid-term. Until you hear official word, however, consider it business as usual as far as our course goes. You should know where things are at by early tomorrow morning.

For up-to-the-minute information, please see the CUPE website: http://www.cupe3903.tao.ca/.

Peace, and be well.

Marcelo