Striking Laurentian University staff to vote on proposed deal as picketing continues

The union representing striking faculty, librarians and counsellors at Laurentian University says the school has proposed a final deal for members to consider this weekend as the strike nears the third-week mark.

The Laurentian University Faculty Association says the Sudbury, Ont., school has characterized the deal as “a final ‘take it or leave it offer,'” and the union is not recommending acceptance or rejection as it holds a membership meeting on Sunday.

The workers first walked off the job Jan. 19 and during the strike, all classes, labs, seminars and other activities have been suspended.

The association says picket lines will be ongoing given the possibility that the strike could continue.

The job action comes after the northern Ontario university faced numerous financial challenges in recent years including filing for creditor protection in early 2021, resulting in major financial restructuring until late 2022.

Laurentian University says if union members vote to ratify the deal this weekend, classes could resume as early as next week.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 5, 2026.

The Canadian Press