Prince George, BC – The arbitrator has released his decision regarding the first collective agreement between the University of Northern British Columbia and the UNBC Faculty Association. This arbitration process is only available to parties negotiating a first collective agreement and will not be available in the future.

Arbitrator Stan Lanyon has awarded a five-year contract, running from July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2019.

The arbitrator has awarded a wage increase of 10 per cent over the duration of the agreement. During bargaining, the university tabled a proposal consistent with the provincial bargaining mandate, which included net-zero and other cost-saving trade-offs that will substantially offset the financial impacts of this award. Members of the UNBC Faculty Association will also be eligible to receive the Economic Stability Dividend along with other public sector employees in B.C. if the provincial economic growth exceeds Economic Forecast Council forecasts.

As the arbitrator is recommending, UNBC is committed to working more closely with the Faculty Association to build strong relationships that will allow the parties to address areas of concern prior to the next round of negotiations. This will also foster an environment that supports the university’s continued excellence.

The full award is available at: Arbitration Award