Update on Provincial Talks Held November 11, 2012
Late in the evening on Saturday, November 10, 2012, ETFO was invited to a discussion with government representatives that would take place on Sunday. Given that we had long said that we would sit at a table where the participants were knowledgeable of education and labour issues and where all issues were open to discussion we determined to participate. The goal for ETFO participation in the Sunday meeting was to address the damage caused by the Memorandum of Understanding / MOU that the Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association / OECTA signed with the government.
During the afternoon and early evening meeting ETFO representatives presented members' concerns around each section of the OECTA MOU and sought clarification on numerous process issues. We did begin very initial discussions around a number of possible options to resolve those matters. We were prepared to continue to discuss these issues and the key interests of our members with a view to possibly creating a renewed environment for local collective bargaining.
The meetings with government representatives concluded abruptly around 7:00 p.m. with no indication that further meetings were possible. OSSTF continued its discussions later into the evening with those talks ultimately breaking down. As always, we will continue to be open to meaningful negotiations that meet the needs and respect the rights of our members; however, no further provincial meetings are scheduled. Your local will continue to try to negotiate local issues and you will be kept informed through Takeover Bulletins.
The fact that the provincial talks were held is most likely the result of the ongoing member protests against Bill 115. By joining in political rallies and implementing the McGuinty Mondays and Take A Pause campaigns, ETFO members have been in the forefront of taking a strong stand to oppose the punitive and undemocratic actions of the Liberal government.
At this point it appears very likely that strike action will be required. Members will be informed about the form of the strike action and the start date through local membership meetings. Strong and lasting solidarity will be needed to protect the democratic rights of all of us who work in the public sector.
In solidarity,
Sam Hammond
President - Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario
"There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor political, but because one's conscience tells one that it's right..."
Martin Luther King Jr.
On another note, your Local is attempting to continue to offer Professional Development workshops to it's members in order for you to keep up with and add to your resume. PD events are carefully considered by our PD committee and chosen from suggestions brought forth by you our members. It would be most appreciated that anyone who registers for a PD workshop or meeting, please be considerate enough to make the effort to attend. It is very disappointing when members don't show up at events when there are plenty of others who would be willing and happy to take their place. We understand that things come up but "feeling tired" is just not a good excuse. Please, if you make the effort to register, than plan for a later evening and attend- chances are you will be so grateful you did and will have gained the knowledge of our presenters in specialized, pertinent areas in our profession.
Deadline to attend the Fall General Meeting is quickly approaching- register at tvotpd@gmail.com by Friday, Nov. 16th- noon. This year's Meeting is taking place at Bellamere Winery and Event Centre from 4:30 - 7:30 PM next Thursday, November 22, 2012. This will be a very well-attended Meeting.
ETFO THAMES VALLEY OCCASIONAL TEACHERS' LOCAL
