OSSTF D35 Brock University Support Staff

A message from Brad Sutherland, Acting President OSSTF BUSS

Dear Members,

I am writing to you today directly as is recent lay off situation lays heavy on my heart.

The news of Brock University’s decision to lay off a significant number of our members is devastating. I know that behind every position is a person, a family, a set of plans, and a deep commitment to the work you do and the students you support. There are no words that can truly lessen the impact of this moment, but please know that your fear, anger, sadness, and uncertainty are valid, and shared.

As your union, OSSTF BUSS exists to protect, advocate for, and stand alongside you. I want to be clear: we have been working tirelessly to challenge these decisions, to seek alternatives, and to ensure that every possible protection within our collective agreement is enforced. Unfortunately, while we strongly oppose the direction Brock has chosen, management does hold the right to manage the institution as they see fit, decisions that, in this case, are coming at an unacceptable human cost to our members.

That reality does not make this easier to accept, nor does it lessen our responsibility to you.

We are actively supporting affected members through this process, including ensuring that severance, recall rights, and contractual obligations are fully respected. We will continue to push back, to hold the employer accountable, and to advocate for transparency and fairness every step of the way.

We have also reached out beyond our campus. We are engaging with our colleagues in the broader community—from the Labour Council, to our fellow unions at Brock, and to local and regional media outlets including CBC, CHCH, and The St. Catharines Standard. The word is slowly getting out there. I hope you will read, listen, and follow these stories as they emerge. I hope you will help spread the message. Most of all, I hope our community sees how our members are being treated and responds with the concern and strength this situation deserves.

To those facing layoff: you are not alone. Your work has mattered. You have mattered. This decision does not define your value, your skills, or your contribution to Brock University or to our community. The union will remain present and engaged with you as you navigate what comes next.

To those who remain: we recognize the strain, uncertainty, and survivor’s guilt that often follows decisions like these. We are here for you as well, and we know that the impact of these layoffs will be felt far beyond those immediately affected.

This is a painful chapter for our local, but it is not the end of our solidarity. In moments like this, the strength of a union is not measured by the absence of hardship, but by how we support one another through it. We will continue to stand together, to speak up, and to fight for respect, dignity, and fairness for all our members.

Please reach out to your union representatives if you need support, information, or simply someone to talk to. We are here, and we will not stop doing everything in our power on your behalf.

In solidarity,

Brad Sutherland
Acting President
OSSTF BUSS
Brock University