Dear Colleagues,
The Alberta government has announced plans to reduce funding to the province’s 26 post-secondary institutions by 20 per cent in the next three years.Citing a 2019 review of Alberta’s spending, the provincial government cut funding to the ministry of advanced education by six per cent for the coming year.
In a follow up to previous communication from the President of MRU regarding steps that must be taken to address budgetary constraints, 19 staff colleagues were informed this morning that their positions were abolished due to financial and budgetary reasons as of May 21st, 2020. The following departments and faculties have been impacted:
- · Library
- · Faculty of Health, Community and Education
- · Faculty of Continuing Education and Extension
- · Enrollment Services
- · University Advancement
- · Bissett School of Business
- · Athletics and Recreations
- · Faculty of Arts
- · Grounds
- · CEMI
The MRSA has no jurisdiction in how or when positions are abolished by an employer, however, we are deeply committed to ensuring that proper procedures have been followed and that our colleagues are treated respectfully. An MRSA Executive member was present for support at each meeting.
We recognize the impact this has on our community. If you have any questions or comments about our role in these proceedings, please let us know. We’d like to remind members that the Collective Agreement grants you access to health and wellness resources during this difficult time (such as Homewood Health).