B.C. teachers have voted overwhelmingly in favour of job action.

BCTF President Jim Iker says there will be no immediate job action.

Iker says saying 26,051 teachers voted “yes” to job action. A total of 29,301 teachers cast their ballots.

“We do not consider job action unless it is absolutely necessary,” said Iker. “We called this vote because after a year of bargaining, the table needed pressure.”

Iker says the government tabled what they consider an ‘insulting’ initial wage proposal that included up to an addition two years of no wage increase.

He reiterated the teachers are asking for smaller class size, more one-on-one time with students, and extra help for those who need it.

“With this vote, BC teachers have sent a very clear message to our government, it’s time to negotiate in good faith, take back the unreasonable proposals, and offer teachers a fair deal that offers better support for our students,” said Iker.