Teachers union upset at back-to-work legislation

The Ontario Secondary School Teacher’s federation is expressing dismay the province is undertaking back-to-work legislation to end strikes in three school-board districts across the province.

Paul Elliott said nothing good can come from ending teachers’ fundamental right to legally walk off the job and withdraw services when necessary.

“This government created the current bargaining process and we have made every effort to make it work,” Elliott said in a release issued Monday afternoon.

“It’s disappointing that the premier and the education minister are so eager to subvert the process with legislation rather than roll up their sleeves and take an active role in helping to make the process work.

Teachers walked off the job earlier this month at the Durham, Rainbow and Peel District School Boards. Lakehead teachers are in a legal strike position, but to date have not given notice of intention to walk off the job.

The Liberal government is expected to introduce back-to-work legislation on Monday. Education Minister Liz Sandals has said while she respects the collective bargaining process, students’ school years are at risk.