Negotiations between Ontario’s colleges and the union representing 10,000 striking support staff are set to resume on Friday. A government-appointed mediator will assist in the discussions. This announcement follows a statement from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities, which indicated that mediation was available if both parties agreed.

The strike began two weeks ago, and no negotiations have taken place since then. The Ontario Public Service Employees’ Union (OPSEU) confirmed its participation in the upcoming talks. The College Employer Council, which represents the province’s 24 public colleges, expressed hope that the mediation would lead to a negotiated agreement and end the strike.

The union is advocating for improved job security amid significant job losses in the sector. Colleges are facing challenges due to federal cutbacks affecting international students, a provincial tuition freeze, and government funding that has not kept pace with rising costs.

On Tuesday, OPSEU requested a government mediator to help facilitate a resolution. Graham Lloyd, CEO of the College Employer Council, stated that the colleges have already committed $145 million for wage increases, enhanced benefits, and some job security measures. However, he noted that certain union demands, such as a ban on layoffs, no contracting out, and a prohibition on college mergers, are not feasible given the financial constraints facing the institutions.

Lloyd previously suggested that mediation should be followed by binding arbitration to resolve any remaining issues, similar to recent successful negotiations for college faculty. However, OPSEU has expressed a strong preference against arbitration, stating it has "zero appetite" for such a settlement.

As the strike continues, many families are feeling the impact. Parents have reported significant disruptions to their childcare arrangements, with some taking unpaid leave or relying on family and friends for support. A group of parents from George Brown College has written to the college and the union, requesting that early childhood staff be exempt from the strike to allow them to return to work.

Anthy Lovachis, a parent affected by the strike, described the uncertainty as the most frustrating aspect. She emphasized that the situation is creating unnecessary stress for families. "To have this go on just indefinitely is so unfair, and not practical for families," she said.

The strike has led to the closure of daycares at several colleges, including George Brown, Humber, and Centennial, affecting hundreds of families. Parents have expressed concern for their children, stating that the disruption has impacted their education and social interactions.

In response to the ongoing situation, George Brown College acknowledged the challenges posed by the strike and stated it is exploring alternative program options in collaboration with Toronto’s Children’s Services, should the strike persist for an extended period.