Faculty at Memorial University are on strike.

MUNFA had set a deadline of midnight to work out a deal, however the two parties are at an impasse.

Memorial University, in an unexpected news conference yesterday, revealed their offer to the association, which includes a 12 per cent increase in salary over four years, an additional 20 weeks of supplemented parental leave, and increased compensation for teaching additional courses. According to the school, MUNFA has consistently requested a salary increase of 14 per cent.

Dr. Neil Bose, interim provost and vice-president academic at MUN, says the impact on students will vary depending on the length of the strike.

They are optimistic that the strike will end soon. He says a lengthy strike would be devastating to students.

More striking MUNFA members turning out at the picket line near the Arts and Administration Building.

Back with another live update with @VOCMBen and @GerriLynnMackey shortly. @590VOCM @VOCMNEWS pic.twitter.com/v3LAJxOUOh

— Sara Strickland (@_SaraStrickland) January 30, 2023

The university wishes for MUNFA to take that offer to the membership. Spokesman Josh Lepawsky they already did that and got a thumbs down. The message from the membership, he says, was to fight on.

Classes taught by MUNFA members have been cancelled, at least for now. Classes taught by non-MUNFA members are going ahead.

Striking MUNFA members outside the Education Building say they’re feeling the support from students who have dropped by with hot coffee to their professors. @VOCMNEWS pic.twitter.com/r02Mqdrj8N

— Sara Strickland (@_SaraStrickland) January 30, 2023

There are five picket lines in total including the Arts and Administration Building off Elizabeth Avenue, one near the residence on Elizabeth, one at the Education parking lot, another next to the Engineering Building and one at the Core Science Building on Allandale Road.

Luke Ashworth of MUNFA says they have no trouble with people crossing the lines.

Alison Coffin, a per-course instructor and spokesperson for MUN’s Lecturers’ Union, says they will have to cross the picket lines and report for work as stipulated in their contract. However, she says administration hasn’t provided all the information they are seeking. For example, will students get a refund of their tuition, do they go to class.

Picketing locations for @MUNFaculty tomorrow:

Arts and Admin. loop
Education parking lot
Elizabeth Ave. near residence (away from residents and child care)
Westerland Road (Opposite field house) UC, next to the engineering building

Picketing starts 8am. @MUNSU35 @MemorialU

— The Muse (@themusenl) January 29, 2023