‘Talks were pointless:’ Sask. teachers ask for arbitration

The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) is opting for binding arbitration after failing to come to an agreement with the province on a new contract.

STF President Patrick Maze announced the move in a written release on Wednesday morning, saying talks had stalled with the government.

“We firmly believe a negotiated settlement is always preferable,” Maze said.

“However, the other side continues to call for wage rollbacks and refuses to bargain on the full range of issues important to teachers.”

The STF, which represents 13,500 teachers across Saskatchewan, has been without a contract since September 2017.

Maze warned parents last week of possible cuts to the classroom after a memo was leaked from the Chinook School Division.

The Educational Relations Board will now select a neutral arbitrator to rule on the terms of the contract, though both sides are still able to negotiate a solution.

However, Maze wasn’t optimistic in the release.

“It was pointless to continue these talks,” he said.