Students at Fanshawe College may see changes to their usual routines soon, as the college has announced the support staff could amplify their strike.
(Signs held by two workers on strike, Naomi Ljunggren)
In an e-mail sent to students Monday morning, the college says cancellations or a push to online format could occur if the Ontario Public Service Employees Union decide to hold a rally.
The changes would apply to any student, regardless of post-secondary, apprenticeship, part-time and continuing education studies, said the e-mail.
“Due to an increase in strike activity at colleges across the province, Fanshawe may experience one-day rallies that will significantly impact anyone arriving and leaving the London Campus,” said Tania Caza, Vice-President at the college.
“Crossing legal picket lines to access campus can be challenging and I truly appreciate the care and respect you have shown as we navigate this situation together.”
The rally could occur as early as Monday or any day afterwards, with the location being main campus but possibly others as well, said the e-mail.
“Respecting workers’ rights are super important,” says Payal, a student at Fanshawe.
(Fanshawe support staff striking, Naomi Ljunggren)
Payal says despite this, the rally is “kind of coming in the way” of their education.
Two other students spoke up about the issue, with Maya saying “it’s really frustraing especially when you don’t know what’s going on,” and Lindsay saying it’s reminiscent of “the COVID times” and not being able to get the “good education” they are hoping to have.
The support staff have been on strike for over four weeks due to issues surrounding job security and funding, and an end date has not yet been announced.
“I want to thank you for your patience and understanding during the ongoing OPSEU full-time support staff strike. Your success is our top priority,” said Caza.
XFM News reached out to President of Fanshawe, Peter Devlin, for comment but he was not available.
