Nipissing University classes cancelled as faculty go on strike

Classes are cancelled at Nipissing University today, as the school's faculty strike over staffing levels, pay and a "meaningful participation in governance."

Shortly after midnight, members of the Nipissing University Faculty Association declared a strike after talks with the university broke down.

A release from the association, which represents 173 professors and other academic employees, say they are still far apart on many key issues.

We hope that our students will be back in class very soon.-  Mike DeGagné, Nipissing University president

"Our members gave us an overwhelmingly clear mandate that they wanted an agreement that gives our members a fair say and fair pay. The employer refuses to hear that message," said faculty association president Susan Srigley.

A release from the university said that classes are cancelled at all Nipissing campuses, including North Bay, Brantford and Muskoka. 

The university remains hopeful that classes will resume shortly.

"We feel that our offer is fair, and we are disappointed that the faculty has chosen to reject it. As a public sector employer, dependent on government grants and tuition for revenue, the university must demonstrate fiscal responsibility," said Mike DeGagné, president and vice-chancellor.

"The university remains committed to reaching an agreement with our faculty that is fair and reasonable. We hope that our students will be back in class very soon."

Nipissing has set up a website to answer questions and provide information for students.