The Union has received very troubling news regarding the UHIP Fund. After representatives persistently followed up, the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) has now confirmed that they will be applying a payment of $173.91 to each international graduate student member paying UHIP premiums. This payment should be applied to student accounts on Friday, October 30.
Please read onwards for resources available through CUPE 3903 to materially support members in these distressing circumstances, as well as information about how we’re fighting for better protections for international students.
Historically, the UHIP Fund has covered the full cost of UHIP premiums for both members and their dependants. The amount that FGS is now providing falls far short of single premiums, and it barely makes a dent for international students who have families who depend on them for healthcare. It is an alarmingly low amount that fails to compensate for the high costs of UHIP (which start at $948 per member and increase substantially when members have dependants). This decision by the Employer betrays how little they care about international students they recruit, who already pay much higher fees.
Union Resources
This is not the end. We’re advocating for this unacceptable shortfall to be fixed by bargaining for full coverage of UHIP premiums. There are also resources available to CUPE 3903 members who are impacted by these wholly inadequate UHIP Fund payments.
In particular, the Ways and Means Fund is accepting applications from any member who experiences acute or ongoing financial need. This fund provides monetary support that can help bridge the gap not covered by the UHIP Fund payments. The application deadline for the Ways and Means Hardship Fund is approaching on November 30, and you can find more information about how to apply on our website. There are also many other funds available to members which can assist financially with various needs that you may face.
Advocacy and Support
Your CUPE 3903 Units 1, 2, & 3 Bargaining Team has already tabled a UHIP proposal that would provide the needed coverage in the future. The Employer has yet to respond to that proposal. We do not intend to let this go; international students are not second-class colleagues. Please click here to read more about the context regarding the Employer’s unilateral attempts to undermine the UHIP Fund and why it’s a key bargaining issue.
In dealing with this upsetting situation, you may want to reach out to seek support and learn more about what resources are available to you. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with representatives listed on our contact webpage. Your union has your back, and we will be will be sharing more updates as soon as we can.