SASKATOON - Another potential deal to end the Saskatchewan Teachers' Federation labour dispute has been rejected by teachers.
STF reported that 55 per cent of teachers voted against the tentative deal that was put to membership for a vote on Wednesday and Thursday; 88 per cent of members cast votes.
“We take our direction from the membership, and members have spoken. The result of this vote is a message to government and the Saskatchewan School Boards Association that teachers need to see real changes to classroom complexity and compensation. In feedback from members, we heard clearly that their priorities haven’t been adequately addressed,” said Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation President Samantha Becotte in a statement.
"In the days leading up to this vote, I stressed that the fight for public education will continue, and our members will determine which forum that battle will take place in. The STF Executive and I will do whatever it takes, for as long as it takes, to get a deal done with the support of our collective to strengthen our profession and public education for current and future students.”
In a news release STF states the Teachers’ Bargaining Committee has extended a verbal invitation for the Government-Trustee Bargaining Committee to return to the negotiating table. They state that a formal, written invitation will be sent tomorrow. If the government and SSBA decline the invitation or talks break down, 48 hours notice will be given prior to resumption of job action.
Tonight, Education Minister Jeremy Cockrill has issued his statement:
"I am disappointed by the result of the vote that will reject not only a fair agreement negotiated between government, school divisions and the STF, but one that was endorsed and recommended by the STF executive senior leadership. We will have more to say about next steps very soon."
