Education Minister Peter Fassbender released the following statement today in response to the BCTF vote on binding arbitration:

“The results of this vote were widely expected and understandable.

“We know BC teachers want schools re-opened.  That is a goal we all share.

“As we have consistently made clear, binding arbitration would lead to unacceptable tax increases in this case. That’s because the two sides remain too far apart on wages and benefits.

“The best way to resolve this labour dispute remains at the negotiating table.

“I will continue to call on the BCTF to suspend this strike and get into the affordability zone, just like 150,000 other hard-working women and men in the public sector who have settled this year.”

Media Contacts:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Education
250 356-5963