This morning Education minister George Abbott announced he’s asked his staff to prepare legislation that would end the labour dispute with the teachers.
Abbott says a ministry fact finder has determined it’s very unlikely a negotiated settlement can be reached.
Abbotsford teachers association president Jeff Dunton says he’s disappointed the government has chosen legislation instead of another option.
“The BCTF had been calling for mediation to get in the middle and work with BCPC, our employer, and BCTF to end the labour dispute. Bringing in legislation I imagine will exacerbate the situation.”
Dunton says he’s worried that a legislated settlement will affect how layoff recalls work, putting too much power in the hands of principals instead of going by seniority.
Teachers have been refusing to perform administrative duties including preparing report cards since the school year began in September.