Alberta Teachers Resume Negotiations Amid Ongoing Strike

The Alberta Teachers' Association (ATA) has announced the resumption of formal bargaining sessions with the Teachers' Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) and a mediator on Tuesday, October 14.

 

This development follows exploratory discussions that began last Friday, which the ATA described as instrumental in advancing negotiations.

 

In a recent statement, the ATA emphasized their commitment to reaching a fair agreement, stating, "We are unable to provide further details at this time."

 

The strike, now entering its fourth day, involves approximately 51,000 teachers and school administrators across the province.

 

During a Thursday interview, ATA President Jason Schilling expressed optimism about the upcoming talks, referring to them as an opportunity to "clean the slate" after previous mediation attempts were unsuccessful.

 

He added, "Parents should take this as a good sign that we're having conversations."

 

On Monday, TEBA issued a lockout notice to ATA members, which took effect on Thursday at 1 p.m.

 

This action prevents teachers from engaging in options like rotating job action.

 

Finance Minister Nate Horner acknowledged the ATA's decision to return to the bargaining table, expressing hope that their proposal would be "reasonable, fair, and adequately represents the terms that teachers want to see reflected in their deal."

 

Schilling noted that the lockout also means teachers would lose their strike mandate should they decide to return to the classroom in the event of a tentative agreement.

 

"We need to ensure that we have member information meetings so that they understand what it's all about, what they're voting for... but we would try to facilitate that as quickly as possible," he said.

 

The ongoing strike has led to the suspension of classes across Alberta, affecting numerous students and families.

 

Both parties remain hopeful that the upcoming negotiations will lead to a resolution that addresses the concerns of educators and ensures the continuity of quality education in the province.