University of Alberta January 2025 Bargaining Update

Negotiations on renewed collective agreements with both NASA and AASUA have resumed after the winter break. At the same time, the university’s annual budget planning cycle is underway and financial discussions are expected to increase during the winter term. 

Both AASUA and NASA tables still discussing non-monetary items, monetary to follow

Since the start of the current round of collective bargaining in early 2024, the university has met with NASA 19 times and with AASUA 13 times. Progress has been made at both tables with discussions on the non-monetary items of each proposal.

Agreements made by the parties on items discussed are not final until all items have been discussed and agreed upon, and remain subject to ratification by both parties. For more information on the bargaining process, visit the U of A About Collective Bargaining page.

AASUA essential service agreement nearing completion

As previously reported, the university and AASUA have reached a tentative essential services agreement (ESA). The window for applications to be included on the research at risk of irreparable damage list that will form part of the ESA closed on Dec. 19. The applications are now being considered by both parties.

The university and NASA continue to negotiate an ESA. Learn more about essential services agreements at the U of A in the U of A Bargaining Frequently Asked Questions page. 

Budgeting, financial constraints and bargaining

The collective bargaining process usually takes over a year, and therefore overlaps with the university’s annual budget planning. As the university — and the Alberta government as the public funder — are currently in budget season, increased discussions in the university community about budgeting and finances can be expected. University budget planning for the coming fiscal year is well underway. 

In the current environment of continued inflationary pressures and constraints on revenue, the university is trending towards a deficit. While university budget planning happens independently of collective bargaining, its implications must be considered. 

It is important to note that the university has an obligation to ensure sound financial management in meeting its complete mandate. Beyond any market trends, all university expenses — including faculty and staff salaries — must consider the complete and unique financial realities of the University of Alberta.

The Collective Bargaining Frequently Asked Questions page has been updated with relevant financial information, including: 

• How does the university's 2025-26 budget affect bargaining?
• Is there a relationship between the hiring freeze and bargaining?
• AASUA regularly compares the percentage of the university's operating budget that is spent on academic staff salaries to that spent by other U15 institutions, is that a fair comparison?
• What role does the Government of Alberta play in public-sector post-secondary bargaining?

Negotiations scheduled to continue into the spring

Both tables have agreed to meeting dates in the coming months. The university and AASUA resumed discussions with a meeting on Jan. 9, and dates are scheduled with NASA beginning in February. Negotiations continue in good faith at both tables, with many items remaining to be discussed including the proposed monetary items.

The university thanks NASA, AASUA and all members of the bargaining teams for their continued commitments to achieving renewed collective agreements through negotiations. As bargaining continues regular community updates will be provided on this site.

Useful resources:

• Collective Bargaining Frequently Asked Questions
• Learn about collective bargaining processes at the U of A and how agreements are reached