In a decisive move to end Alberta’s largest teachers’ strike, Premier Danielle Smith’s government introduced legislation on Monday invoking the Charter’s notwithstanding clause.
This bill mandates 51,000 striking teachers to return to work, aiming to resume classes for over 740,000 students by Wednesday.
The proposed legislation enforces a previously rejected agreement, offering a 12% wage increase over four years and the hiring of 3,000 additional teachers.
Non-compliance could result in fines up to $500 daily for individuals and $500,000 for the Alberta Teachers’ Association.
This action has sparked significant backlash from the labour community.
The Common Front, representing over 350,000 workers across 30 unions, has threatened an “unprecedented response” if the government proceeds with overriding constitutional rights.
Premier Smith defended the use of the notwithstanding clause, citing the strike’s scale and the necessity for stability in education.
She emphasized the unique nature of the situation, stating, “This is a very unique situation we find ourselves in. This is a unique strike.
We’ve never had 51,000 workers off the job at the same time.”
As the government fast-tracks the bill’s passage, the province braces for potential widespread labour unrest in response to this unprecedented legislative measure.
Keith Hopper, Trending 55
