Alberta’s finance minister has indicated that the province may introduce back-to-work laws if teachers remain on strike when the legislature reconvenes later this month. Nate Horner mentioned a significant gap between the demands of the striking teachers’ union and the government’s budgetary limits.
The ongoing province-wide strike has impacted around 750,000 students in 2,500 schools, now in its seventh day. A recent contract proposal from the Alberta Teachers’ Association was discussed at a bargaining session, the first since the 51,000 teachers walked out on October 6.
During an interview with Corus Radio, Horner stated that the union’s latest proposal was ambitious, requiring nearly $2 billion more than the allocated government funds. He hinted at the possibility of introducing back-to-work legislation in the upcoming legislative session starting on October 27 to promptly resume school operations.
Horner emphasized that the government’s contract spending ceiling stands at $2.6 billion spread over four years. He expressed disappointment with the union’s request, hoping for a more practical agreement based on previous negotiations. The union’s proposal primarily focuses on higher salary increments and addressing classroom issues like class size limitations.
In response, Union president Jason Schilling defended the proposal, stating it was a necessary ask to address teachers’ concerns. The government’s previous offer, including a 12% salary increase over four years and a commitment to hire 3,000 additional educators, was turned down by teachers in a vote.
Horner asserted that the government’s salary offer was fair and aligned with agreements signed with other public sector unions, indicating little room for further negotiation. The union has yet to comment on the minister’s statements but mentioned that no new meeting dates have been arranged, and both parties are exploring options.
Horner later emphasized the importance of returning to negotiations promptly, urging the union to engage in realistic discussions to reach a viable resolution. Schilling defended the union’s stance, highlighting the challenges faced in classrooms across Alberta due to government policies impacting students, parents, and the community.