With strike action by members of MUN’s Faculty Association possible, the university says it is still hopeful an agreement can be reached.

Talks between the two sides, which have been going on for just under a year, reached an impasse following conciliated talks.

Dr. Neil Bose, Interim Provost and Vice President Academic at MUN, believes that conciliation was initiated at the union’s request in June, and that it was MUNFA who advised that the two sides had reached an impasse.

At the heart of the issue, says Bose, are the salaries along with some other items.

Members can vote to strike as of December 29 but Bose is hopeful that a deal can be reached. Classes are set to begin on January 5 but a strike would affect course delivery.

He says operations will not continue in the normal way, which will impact students.

MUNFA represents about 800 academic staff members at the university.