Some 55,000 education workers across the province are set to embark on a work-to-rule campaign today (Monday) after contract talks with the province broke down over the weekend.
The workers taking job action include clerical staff, custodians, educational assistants and early childhood educators.
They won’t be working overtime or performing extra duties.
Education Minister Stephen Lecce says he’s deeply disappointed the Canadian Union of Public Employees decided to end talks over the weekend, noting there are a limited number of outstanding items on the table.
He adds the Crown and employers tabled a reasonable deal and even expanded their offer.
Lecce says they have offered proposals to address compensation, job security and funding for additional staffing.
He adds a key issue that remains is resolving absenteeism rates, and the impact that has on students and schools.
Lecce says the government remains fully committed to resuming discussions to reach a quick agreement.
He adds through their mediator, he has asked for additional bargaining dates to bring everyone back to the table.
Lecce says student safety will be a priority during the workers work-to-rule campaign.
The Union blames the Ministry of Education and Ontario’s school board trustees of maintaining the wrong priorities throughout the talks.
Meantime, elementary teachers will begin strike votes to support their contract demands.
The union representing high school teachers begins bargaining on a central deal.
