Bargaining Information For UMFA Members

June 25, 2024

When does bargaining begin?

The bargaining process has already started. UMFA’s Collective Agreement Committee (CAC) is working on interpreting all the feedback received from constituency meetings, the bargaining survey, and other inputs, to prepare bargaining proposals. Once the CAC has developed a proposal package, it will go to the Board of Representatives for debate, and then will be recommended to a Special General Meeting (SGM) for all UMFA Members for approval.

Do I have input into the bargaining package?

Yes! A summary of the bargaining proposals will be shared with you. All UMFA members will be invited to a Special General Meeting in July where you will have the opportunity to discuss, modify, and ratify the proposals. While all members of the bargaining unit can attend this meeting, only members who have signed their blue union card are able to vote at the meeting. Following approval of the bargaining package, the Bargaining Team will meet with the administration’s team to present the package, and begin negotiations in earnest.

What is the UMFA Board of Representatives?

Every department is entitled to one representative on the Board for every 15 members, with smaller departments being combined into larger constituencies. Board Reps elect the Executive Council, debate and approve annual budgets and policy positions, help share important information with their constituents, and can ask questions/share information on behalf of their constituents. Your direct connection to decision making in UMFA is through your Board Rep.

Who is my Board Rep?

All Board Reps are listed on UMFA’s website at: https://www.umfa.ca/who-we-are/governance/board-of-representatives. If your department does not have a representative, volunteer for this important role! Contact the UMFA office for more information at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 204.474.8562.

Where can I learn more about bargaining?

Throughout the bargaining process you will receive updates by email, so watch your email for those updates! To learn about the bargaining process, visit: umfa.ca/bargaining-information.