Thunder Bay – As the OPSEU/SEFPO strike by college support staff enters its second week, Ontario NDP MPP Peggy Sattler is turning up the heat on Doug Ford’s government, calling for an end to postsecondary education cuts and urging the province to invest in college infrastructure and frontline staff.
Speaking at Queen’s Park, Sattler, the NDP’s Shadow Minister for Colleges, Universities, Research, and Excellence, voiced strong support for the striking workers, who represent thousands of essential staff across Ontario’s public college system — including Thunder Bay’s Confederation College.
“These workers are the backbone of our college system,” said Sattler. “From IT and registration to academic advising and library services, they are vital to student success. Their fight is about job security, fairness, and the future of public postsecondary education in Ontario.”
Local Relevance: Confederation College Impacted
At Confederation College, support services have been strained as striking staff continue their picket outside campus facilities. While classes may continue, student-facing roles such as registrar services, co-op placement support, and advising have seen disruption — potentially impacting fall term outcomes for students in Thunder Bay and the surrounding region.
Funding Cuts at the Core of Dispute
The NDP is placing blame squarely on the Ford government, citing that Ontario already spends the least per student on postsecondary education in Canada. Since taking office, Ford’s administration has cut over $2 billion from the sector, resulting in program closures, job losses, and institutional instability.
Sattler criticized the government’s record, stating, “Ford has gutted college funding. Thousands of jobs have been lost and hundreds of programs eliminated. Now, college workers are left fighting just to hold on to basic job protections.”
Mediation Talks Resume
As mediation talks between OPSEU/SEFPO and the College Employer Council are set to resume, pressure is mounting for both sides to reach a deal that secures both worker protections and the quality of student services.
The Ontario NDP says it will continue to stand with union members until a fair agreement is reached.
“Workers are showing up in good faith, stronger than ever, and ready to bargain. The College Employer Council must be prepared to do the same,” said Sattler. “This isn’t just about workers — it’s about safeguarding the future of Ontario’s colleges and the skilled graduates our local economies depend on.”
