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Queen’s University Postdocs to Hold Strike Vote

Kingston – On October 5, 2016, Queen’s University broke off talks with its postdoctoral scholars who are represented by the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC). With the employer walking away from the table, PSAC will now be conducting strike votes on October 13, 14 and 17, 2016.

"Queen’s current offer does nothing to address how their world-class postdocs are living in poverty,” says Craig Berggold, Local 901 President. “They are also unwilling to extend to us childcare benefits that are comparable to other salaried employees on campus. We are struggling to pay our rent and many of us are even relying on foodbanks to make ends meet."

There are 175 postdoctoral scholars at Queen's University working on cutting-edge research in a variety of scientific fields. The current minimum salary paid by the University is $32,174 and many of the postdocs are paid at this rate.

“How can Queen’s University justify receiving valuable research from its postdocs and yet condemn them to struggle on a daily basis to pay their bills?” states Sharon DeSousa, PSAC Ontario Regional Executive Vice-President. “This is about treating workers fairly, with respect and dignity.” 

For more information or to book interviews, please contact:

Lino Vieira, Political Communications Officer, vieiral@psac-afpc.com or 416-577-0238