Collective Bargaining Update – August 7

The following provides an update on collective bargaining and related labour relations activities at UPEI.

UPEI Faculty Association

On July 31, the UPEI Faculty Association requested that the Minister of Workforce and Advanced Learning appoint a conciliation officer to assist with negotiations for Bargaining Units 1 and 2. The University has been advised that a conciliation officer has been assigned, effective August 25, 2026.

Conciliation is a normal part of the collective bargaining process and is intended to help the parties resolve outstanding issues and work toward renewed collective agreements. While the University would normally expect conciliation to occur later in the bargaining process, the University remains committed to constructive, good-faith bargaining and will participate fully and cooperatively in conciliation.

Conciliation is also a required step under the Labour Act of Prince Edward Island before either party may legally consider a strike or lockout. A strike is a work stoppage initiated by the union, while a lockout is a work stoppage initiated by the employer. If conciliation does not result in an agreement, the Act sets out additional steps and waiting periods before either can occur. These provisions are a normal part of the collective bargaining framework and do not necessarily mean there will be a labour disruption.

As part of responsible planning, UPEI maintains consistent, institution-wide procedures for managing any potential work stoppage. These procedures apply to employees in a bargaining unit involved in a strike or lockout, as well as others in the campus community who may be affected. The University will promptly communicate with the campus community if there is any anticipated impact on university operations.

The University’s priority remains reaching negotiated agreements at the bargaining table. Any agreement reached is considered tentative until it is ratified by the bargaining unit membership and formally approved by UPEI.

CUPE 1870

The University thanks the supervisors, managers, and leaders who participated in this week’s virtual session on Understanding the New CUPE 1870 Collective Agreement.

The session provided an overview of the recently negotiated changes and their practical application. This work will help ensure that leaders understand and consistently operate within the agreed-upon terms and conditions of the collective agreement.

CUPE 501

The University looks forward to beginning negotiations with CUPE 501, with bargaining sessions scheduled for August 10 to 13, 2026. UPEI remains committed to constructive discussions and to working toward a renewed collective agreement that supports employees, students, and the University community.

For FAQs or more information, and to view previous updates and statements, visit the UPEI Labour Relations web pages.