Mark Brown has been appointed special mediator in the labour dispute between Vancouver Island University (VIU) and the Vancouver Island University Faculty Association (VIUFA), which will result in a return to work and allow students to complete their term, Minister of Labour, Citizens' Services and Open Government, Stephanie Cadieux announced today.

"This situation has had such a significant impact on students, parents, staff and faculty, it is important that we take this measure to help resolve the differences between the university and the faculty association," said Cadieux. "Mr. Brown is a respected mediator and has the expertise and experience to provide that help."

The university has been behind faculty association picket lines since March 10, 2011, with classes cancelled. The appointment of the special mediator will permit students to return to classes Tuesday, April 12, in order to complete their spring term studies. All VIU campuses will be re-opened.

Brown will work with the parties for 30 days to attempt to resolve the remaining issues between them. If a settlement cannot be reached within this timeline, the mediator will issue non-binding recommendations to end the dispute, upon which both parties will have 10 days to accept or reject the recommendations.

Brown is a private mediator and arbitrator with expertise in labour relations, collective bargaining, mediation and adjudication in public and private sectors including health care, social services, education, forestry, communications, hospitality and manufacturing.

Contact:

David Greer

Communications Director

Labour, Citizens' Services and Open Government

250 208-4350

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