The University of Manitoba Faculty Association is in conciliation talks with the university administration following a strong member turnout and vote in favour of strike action earlier this month.

“Our major issues are those related to governance, members’ rights and academic freedom,” said faculty association president Sharon Alward.

“We have an administration at this university that is attempting to corporatize the institution, that devalues collegial governance, and that pays lip service to principles of academic freedom while trying to set criteria for preferred areas of research. The outcome of this round of bargaining will determine the culture and mission of this university far into the future.”

Other issues include prohibition of performance management systems, privacy of member email and other materials, provision for adequate technical support for newly-introduced electronic administrative systems, and guarantees of meaningful input into plans to amalgamate faculties.

Negotiations for a new collective agreement have been ongoing since June.

The faculty association has said if issues are not resolved at the table by a midnight deadline Oct. 21, UMFA members will be on strike.