The Saskatchewan Teachers Federation (STF) announced on Monday, October 16, that the Teachers’ Bargaining Committee has declared an impasse in negotiations with the Government-Trustee Bargaining Committee and will be filing for conciliation. Teachers will hold a vote on sanctions on October 24 and 25. 

“The government is leaving us no other option. We’ve met nine times and there has been no significant movement on issues that are important to teachers, students, and families,” said Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation President Samantha Becotte. “We always want to reach an agreement through negotiations. And we will return to the table, day or night, any time the government is prepared to actually negotiate. But as it stands today, this is pointless.”

The STF said that teachers are seeking a new arrangement that addresses the most pressing issues in education, and to address the serious challenges that students, families, and teachers are facing, which include class sizes and composition along with a lack of support for students. 

“Data shows that while enrolment is up, there are fewer teachers and other professional supports. The government has refused to bargain on nine out of 10 teacher proposals,” stated the STF in a release. 

“The Premier and his education minister have made a political choice to cut education funding and leave salary increases well below the rate of inflation for almost a decade. Instead, they are focusing all their attention on divisive wedge issues,” stated Becotte. “The lack of accountability and callous approach is abhorrent. Saskatchewan families deserve a government that works for them.”

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