CUPE 4600 Bargaining Update #2

Carleton University remains in collective bargaining with CUPE 4600 Unit 1, which represents Teaching Assistants, some Research Assistants and Service Assistants, and CUPE 4600 Unit 2, representing Contract Instructors. Since negotiations began in September, the parties have made progress and reached agreement on many articles. The university’s goal continues to be achieving negotiated agreements that are fair to both units while reflecting the significant fiscal challenges facing the institution. The university is hopeful agreements will be reached through continued discussions with both units at the bargaining tables.

CUPE 4600 Unit 1 Update
The parties met most recently on November 20 and November 26. Two additional bargaining dates are scheduled for December 4 and 5. Discussions have been productive and the parties are making significant progress as they have already agreed upon many articles.

CUPE 4600 Unit 2 Update
On October 16, 2025, CUPE 4600 Unit 2 requested the appointment of a conciliation officer through the Ministry of Labour. Conciliation is a normal part of the collective bargaining process and does not signal that a labour disruption is imminent. The first conciliation meeting took place on November 25 and the parties will continue working with the Ministry-appointed conciliator on December 11 and 12 in an effort to reach agreement on key issues.

More information regarding the collective bargaining process can be found on the Collective Bargaining site.