The University College of Cape Breton faculty association has won a strong new collective agreement, following protracted negotiations. The agreement, ratified in February, provides for wage increases of 16 per cent over four years. The salary package was also front-end loaded, with five per cent retroactive to July 2002, a further two per cent in April 2003, and three per cent in July 2003, July 2004 and July 2005.

New language in the agreement provides protection from outsourcing, start up funds for new members, accommodation of disabilities, education leave, a research grant in lieu of salary and computers as standard office equipment. The settlement also provides improvements to parental leave and sabbatical pay.

In December members of FAUT voted 86 per cent in favour of strike action.

"Our members were determined to fight for what they deserve," said Allen Britten, president of the UCCB Faculty Association of University Teachers.

"It was a hard-fought battle, but we've achieved a terrific settlement."