To the Editor: I'm surprised the SaskParty has resorted to threatening layoffs and fear-mongering in an attempt to resolve the teachers' contract.
In a recent MLA report released by the SaskParty they fear-monger parents and students about the negotiations with the Saskatchewan Teachers Federation.
The MLA report states, "It's disappointing the STF took strike action this week instead of allowing their members to vote on the GTBC offer. Not only have children been denied valuable classroom time, hundreds of Grade 12 students are also faced with the prospect of being denied their graduation, something many have looked forward to for years."
The Saskatchewan Teachers Federation withdrew their services on Thursday, May 5th, 2011 province-wide for one day after the teachers overwhelmingly (95 per cent) voted in support of strike action.
It's very disappointing this government would stoop to the level of fear-mongering Grade 12 students with their graduation. Those kids won't be denied that opportunity due to the negotiations with teachers. This is purely inappropriate politics and negotiating, proving to the public why unions and collective bargaining are needed in this province.
I'm also very concerned that Premier Brad Wall has threatened teachers by saying a raise larger than 5.5 per cent over three years would lead to layoffs.
What Premier Wall is stating there, is his government isn't willing to further invest in education above the current levels despite the economic prosperity in this province. It's a cause for concern if this government has just passed the largest budget in the province's history and can't afford an increase to teachers' wages that are on par with inflation.
Saskatchewan teachers have been without a contract since August 31, 2010.
The Saskatchewan NDP joined with over 3,000 teachers in Regina and over 600 in Yorkton for the day of action and call for higher wages and respect.
Education is a vital part of our province and these teachers help shape our children's future. We need to treat them with more respect and get back to the bargaining table instead of threatening layoffs or fear-mongering parents. I encourage you all to support the teachers in this negotiation process as they're the foundation of our education system.
Chad Blenkin - NDP MLA Candidate, Yorkton, SK.
