Lecce calls for mediation to avert school strike

Toronto: Stephen Lecce, Ontario Minister of Education, has asked unions to come back to the table, while calling for mediation in the ongoing labour negotiations.

Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) has announced a work-to-rule strike action that begins on Tuesday, November 26. The action targets Ministry and school board administrative tasks and does not impact on students, it said.

“While our Government has been a reasonable force and student-focused at the bargaining table, the labour unions continue to take escalating steps towards strike action. Strike action could mean school closures, disruption, and uncertainty for students and parents,” said Lecce.

“Today, I am offering all education sector unions the option to enter into mediation. I believe this is the right step, as mediation involves an independent third party to assist the unions, trustee associations, and the government in reaching settlements.

Lecce is scheduled to provide an update on education sector labour negotiations at Queen’s Park today.

“Parents, teachers and education professionals know that the government’s agenda of cuts, not investment, in public education is harmful to our students’ education and future. We’re taking the legal steps available to us to get a better deal that supports our members and students and helps preserve Ontario’s world-class education system,” said  ETFO President Sam Hammond, when announcing the strike action.

 

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