Are Job Cuts Coming to Conestoga College?
Union says up to 180 support staff positions could be impacted
Conestoga College is the latest Ontario institution facing difficult decisions amid widespread financial pressures. This week, approximately 180 support staff received notice that their roles may soon be eliminated or reassigned due to budgetary constraints.
The affected employees, represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) Local 238, were informed of the development during a meeting on Tuesday afternoon.
What’s Happening Over the Next 90 Days?
According to OPSEU Local 238 President Vikkie Poirier, the next three months will be critical in determining the outcome for many workers. Under the current collective agreement, affected employees fall into three categories: probationary employees who are being laid off, employees who will be reassigned to vacant roles, and those who may be reassigned into roles currently held by others.
“Those laid off will continue working for 90 days before being placed on a recall list,” explained Poirier. “Others could be reassigned at any point during this period.”
The atmosphere at the meeting was understandably tense. Poirier described the day as emotionally draining for union members.
“It was a very difficult day for all involved,” she said. “Delivering this message was incredibly hard. We did our best under the circumstances.”
Which Roles Are Affected?
Among those potentially impacted are Student Success Advisors – key staff members who provide tutoring, career advice, and mental health support. The ripple effects of losing such vital services could be significant, both for students and the broader college community.
“Our members are the foundation of the college,” Poirier emphasized. “Faculty, administration – none of them can do their work without support staff. Students rely on us every step of the way.”
Support staff are present in nearly every operational area at the college, including admissions, international student services, facilities, and academic advising. OPSEU Local 238 represents approximately 890 employees across these departments.
What’s Driving the Cuts?
Like many other post-secondary institutions across Ontario, Conestoga College has attributed the job cuts to declining enrolment – particularly among international students. Recent federal policy changes have imposed a cap on international student permits, a move that has caused financial strain across the college sector.
At Conestoga, international student intake has been reduced by 50 per cent, leading to a significant shortfall in operational funding.
While the official notices were only just issued, the union had been preparing for this outcome. Last month, support staff were advised that layoffs were likely, and several information sessions were held to help members understand the process and their rights.
Affected by College Layoffs?
If you’re a non-unionized employee at Conestoga College, and have been impacted by recent staffing reductions, you may have legal entitlements to severance pay.
Severance packages in Ontario can vary based on your role, length of service, age, and other factors. In some cases, severance can be as much as 24 months’ pay. If a layoff involves 50 or more employees, there may be additional protections under provincial employment legislation.
At Whitten & Lublin, our team of employment lawyers has experience helping employees understand their rights and maximize their severance entitlements. If you’ve been impacted, contact us today for a consultation – online or by phone at (416) 640-2667.