Quiet talks continue between the province and BC teachers
Posted November 29, 2013 10:12 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Would it surprise you to learn the province and its public school teachers have quietly held several bargaining sessions in recent weeks? A labour relations specialist says considering the history between the sides, it’s noteworthy.
John Fryer at the University of Victoria also thinks it’s a good sign. He notes the union and the government are talking instead of trying to gain public support through the media.
“As long as people are talking, it means some kind of progress is being made. I think we should encourage the talks to continue,” says Fryer.
In the past month, the sides have met seven times, including twice this week. Fryer says it’s possible they have been able to get to a fresh start, with a new education minister and new leader at the BC Teachers Federation.
But he expects money will be a stumbling block and figures negotiations haven’t gone there yet. “While both sides often say it isn’t about the money, ultimately negotiations are always about the money.”
If the province wants its long-term deal, Fryer says it’s going to have to find the cash.
