‘Support’ for students

While there might be some delays during a strike at Confederation College, officials from both sides say they support the students.

Ontario Public Sector Employees Union Local 731 vice-president Adair Conlon said even though her members are on the picket line outside of the college, they’d much rather be inside with the students as the first day of school kicked off Tuesday.

“We do support them and we’re hoping to be back to work," Conlon said.

But so far there has been no movement in talks between the union and colleges across the province.

Some students may think that the workers are trying to impede them, but Conlon said the fight is about keeping good paying jobs for the students who will become part of the workforce soon.

"Management seems to be looking at a two-tiered system where new workers end up coming in with a lower wage and lesser benefits," Conlon said.

With over 1,700 students registered so far, Confederation College president Jim Madder said the striking workers have been doing a great job at not delaying people too much and he appreciates the patience people on both sides of the line have shown.

"I think the people on the line are keeping that line going," Madder said.

"It’s about safety and patience. Let’s just take our time here Some of our service will take longer because we currently miss the people that are on the line now but right now it’s OK."