A message sent to the Queen’s community on behalf of Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic) Matthew Evans regarding the Winter 2025 term and status of negotiations with PSAC and its Local 901.
Dear members of the Queen’s community,
Regrettably, the PSAC 901 Unit 1 strike is now in its fourth week, and we know that some parents and students are concerned as we approach the final exam period. I am writing to provide important information on the status of negotiations and the ways the university is prioritizing students’ academic progress as they conclude the Winter 2025 term. Please know that we are taking steps to minimize disruptions for students and support them at this important time.
First, an update on negotiations:
The university and PSAC are engaged in an ongoing mediation process. We presented a competitive offer to PSAC 901 on Sunday, March 9, including annual wage increases (3% / 2.25% / 2.25%) to align with recently ratified settlements with other unions at Queen's. As of May 1, 2026, the hourly wage rate would be $50; expressed as a stipend for Teaching Fellows, it is $9,924. These increases include a market adjustment (increase) of 12.86%, effective May 1, 2025, which would bring the wages for part-time graduate student workers at Queen’s in excess of wages paid at most comparator U6 research intensive universities in Ontario.
Queen’s has said repeatedly that we expect a comprehensive response to our offer, and one that addresses the terms and conditions of employment. We will continue to make every reasonable effort to reach a collective agreement that both parties can ratify.
In the meantime, more than 240 PSAC members have chosen to return to their employment duties and support students and faculty as they look to complete the term. This is a right for every striking member, and we will ensure that they are treated with respect and that their information is kept confidential. If a striking member wishes to return to work, they may request reinstatement to active employment through their manager using a ‘Request to Work during Strike’ form.
Academic progress during the disruption:
The university is committed to supporting students’ academic progress. The expectation remains that instructors will assign final letter grades as usual, and this will be possible in the vast majority of cases. We recognize and appreciate the considerable efforts of faculty who have adapted their courses and assessments to ensure that students receive final grades wherever possible. Students may receive Credit Standing (CR) in a small number of courses — fewer than five per cent — that are taught by a striking Teaching Fellow. CR may also be used in rare cases where an instructor has exercised their right under the collective agreement to withdraw their labour in support of PSAC 901. CR is being advised for use only in these limited and specific situations, where a fair and reliable grade cannot be assigned. More information about the recommendation to use CR in limited cases during the disruption is available in an open letter from the Vice-Provost (Teaching and Learning).
Respectful engagement:
Finally, I would like to reiterate Principal Deane’s earlier message to our community members regarding our shared commitment to respectful engagement. More recently, we have witnessed disruptions including the delay of food deliveries to residence dining halls, interruptions at meetings for exam proctors who are often retired community members who assist the university during examinations, incidents of targeting and accusations leveled at staff and faculty members who are supporting students in completing their term, and repeated incursions onto the university’s private property.
If you are experiencing behaviours that violate the Queen’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention and Response Policy (including harassment, coercion or discrimination), please review the reporting procedures (here and here). Threats and attempts to intimidate can be reported to the Picket Hotline at 613-533-6464 where individuals can report the circumstances and receive assistance. For information on what activities and disruptions are permitted on the picket line, please visit the Labour News FAQ page. Support resources for students are also available on the Student Resources webpage.
The university will continue to update community members with timely information on Labour News. I’d like to thank you all for your patience and understanding and I wish all students the best of luck in completing the term.
Sincerely,
Matthew Evans (he/him/his), PhD (Cantab), FRSB, SFHEA
Provost & Vice-Principal (Academic)