“Students and parents don’t need to begin yet another school year in September with the threat of a full strike and major disruption hanging over their heads. Our children deserve stability.

“In the interest of reaching an agreement before the end of June, BCPSEA will be making two significant moves at the bargaining table.

“First, the employer will table a new offer with a six-year term. That would be the longest agreement ever reached with the Teachers’ Federation in British Columbia. And it will open the door to a 10-year agreement next.

“Second, the employer will offer teachers a time-limited signing bonus. The amount and details will be discussed tomorrow at the bargaining table.

“These are two significant moves aimed at reaching an agreement by the end of the school year.” – Peter Fassbender,  Education Minister

 

***

43,600 unionized employees (BCGEU and 10 other unions) working in diverse areas of the health sector, including care aides, paramedics, dispatchers, ambulance drivers, cleaners and lab assistants, as well as nursing unit assistants and administrative/support staff have got a 5 year tentative settlement to look at and vote on.

Nurses (BCNU) not covered in this agreement.

The government’s Economic Stability Mandate provides public-sector employers with the ability to negotiate longer-term agreements within a fixed fiscal envelope and offers employees an opportunity to participate in the Province’s economic growth. Settlements are expected to be unique between sectors and reflect government’s priorities of having labour stability, affordable service delivery and a balanced budget.