Minister of Education George Abbott has made the following statement:

"I am pleased the Phase 1 job action is over. Parents and students expect schools to return to normal and school districts to co-ordinate report cards as soon as possible.

"I am also pleased the British Columbia Teachers' Federation (BCTF) provided two names as potential mediators. I am reviewing their suggestions and will make a determination after March 26th.

"It is unfortunate for students and teachers that the BCTF plan encourages the withdrawal from extracurricular activities. I respect the choice of individual teachers to volunteer and I know that for many teachers, extracurricular activities are the best part of their day. They find it rewarding to interact with kids who are passionate about the same things they are.

"It's clear from the recent BCTF AGM that many teachers want to move beyond the constant confrontation with government and take a more constructive approach. I encourage teachers to carefully consider how they want to move forward. Mediation provides a real opportunity to bridge the differences at the bargaining table and do what's best for students."

George Abbott
Minister of Education