Talks have once again broken down between the union representing 55,000 education workers in Ontario and the government.
As strike action only just stopped, it’s expected to start up once again as CUPE has made the choice to serve the 5 day notice of strike action to the Council of Trustees Association & Government.
Speaking earlier this morning, Laura Walton CUPE says what was recently offered by the government for a pay raise equals to 3.59 per cent.
“It’s not nearly what we deserve for the care and effort and passion we put into our jobs and it certainly is not enough to make up for a decade of having the governments hands in our pockets through legislative interference in our collective bargain process.” said Walton.
Walton says this agreement has never just been amount money, but supporting students.
“But way back 167 days ago I told you this was never just about wages and that’s my message again today. This fight started with a focus on services for students. Parents swelled our lines to demand better for their children. We will not abandon parents just because Doug Ford waves a loonie in our face.”
CUPE adds they remain committed to reaching a fair settlement prior to November 21st, the date of which education workers could again be on the picket line.
“I urge the Ford government to come forward to seize the time we have and do the right thing. Come forward with a deal that truly helps students catch up.”
Education Minister Stephen Lecce saying in a statement they have put up multiple offers which would have added to millions of dollars across the sector as they remain at the table for a fair deal to invest more for low income workers and keep kids in class.
