According to Mendelson, McGill ran a $15-million deficit last year, and in conjunction with the Quebec government, agreed to eliminate that deficit in three years.
"The University only has so much money," Mendelson said. "We can only have a $5-million deficit next year. To meet our deficit target, there will be cuts to the system."
After reading similar claims that McGill's TAs received the highest wages in the province in the McGill News Bulletin, Marc-Andre Rousseau, a graduate student and TA in mathematics and statistics, was frustrated by what appear to be inaccuracies from the administration.
"The administration's decision to spread lies is counterproductive and seems to indicate a lack of good faith in the negotiation process," Rousseau said.
Examples of higher TA wages in Quebec can be seen at Concordia University, where TAs are limited to a ten hour workweek, and TAs in the science faculty can be paid up to $27.74 per hour. However, this is only the rate paid to most "Grade 1" Science TA's and demonstrators; these are designated as "Tutorial Leaders" and are responsible for possible tutorial sessions, are required to hold office hours and help grade exams. Wages for other TAs drop as low as $12.00 for "Grade 3," or those who only serve as an assistant to the professor in the laboratory or classroom.
While details are still being worked out about the strike, Kouri-Towe urges students to consult the AGSEM Web site for any new developments.
At press time, the representatives from the administration could not be reached for comment, due to the timing of the labour union's decision.
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 2
John
posted 4/12/08 @ 6:49 PM EST
Another great article by Ken Sun!
Kaler Whitehead
posted 4/19/09 @ 1:56 AM EST
Good information. Thanks for the post.
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