University of Toronto reaches tentative deal with staff union

The University of Toronto has reached a tentative agreement with United Steelworkers Local 1998, representing more than 6,100 staff members including academic advisers, program co-ordinators, lab assistants, and IT workers.

The agreement comes after union members voted overwhelmingly for a strike mandate, with 96 per cent of ballots cast in favor. The potential strike action threatened to disrupt the first week of classes. Key concerns raised by the union included workload burdens and job security, specifically regarding the university's policy of not replacing employees who leave.

If the collective agreement is ratified by the membership, it will remain in effect until June 30, 2029. The union plans to hold a ratification information town hall to provide members with an overview of the deal and answer questions before a final vote.