A potential strike is looming at Memorial University.

According to an update in the MUN Gazette, the university and the Memorial University Faculty Association have been engaged in collective bargaining since last January.

However, after conciliation on November 30 and December 1, MUNFA advised the conciliation officer that both sides are at an impasse, meaning they’re in a situation where no progress is possible.

As a result, the officer filed a report with the provincial minister responsible for labour indicating that talks have come to a standstill. The minister has accepted the report, triggering a 15 day “cooling off period.” With that, the earliest the union can take a strike vote is December 29.

They say MUNFA has made public statements indicating preparations are underway for potential job action, and MUN is preparing as well by developing plans to minimize the impact of any potential disruptions.

The university is emphasizing that they are starting the winter semester with the expectation that students will be able to progress through the term with minimal interruptions.

The University says they welcome a return to the negotiating table, and remain hopeful that a resolution can be found.