Saskatchewan Teachers Now Voting on Province’s Final Offer
After months of negotiations, Saskatchewan teachers are now voting on the province’s final offer for a new collective bargaining agreement.
The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) has been in talks with the provincial government since November 2020, with the previous agreement expiring in August 2020. The main points of contention have been salary increases and workload concerns.
The STF represents over 13,000 teachers in the province, and their vote will determine whether or not the proposed agreement will be accepted. The voting process began on April 12 and will continue until April 22.
According to the STF, the proposed agreement includes a 1.5% salary increase in the first year, followed by a 1% increase in the second year and a 0.5% increase in the third year. This is in line with the province’s mandate of a 1% increase for public sector workers.
In addition, the agreement addresses workload concerns by including a provision for a joint committee to review and make recommendations on workload issues.
The STF has stated that they are not recommending the agreement to their members, but are leaving the decision up to individual teachers. They have also expressed disappointment with the lack of progress in negotiations and the province’s unwillingness to address their concerns.
On the other hand, the provincial government has stated that the proposed agreement is fair and reasonable, taking into account the current economic climate and the need for fiscal responsibility.
If the majority of teachers vote to accept the proposed agreement, it will be ratified and a new collective bargaining agreement will be in place. However, if the majority vote to reject it, the STF will resume negotiations with the province.
The outcome of this vote will have a significant impact on the education system in Saskatchewan, as well as the relationship between the STF and the provincial government. Both parties are hopeful for a positive resolution and a fair agreement for all involved.
