The union representing Catholic teachers in Ontario has taken a step toward potential job action by requesting conciliation in their ongoing negotiations with the Ford government.
Conciliation involves the appointment of a neutral third party by the Ministry of Labour to facilitate ongoing talks. The Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA) sought conciliation due to the slow pace of negotiations, which had been ongoing for nearly 18 months. Although there has been a notable improvement in the tone of the bargaining table discussions, the union felt it was necessary to advance the process.
In October, Catholic teachers voted overwhelmingly in favor (97%) of providing their union with a strike mandate. While this vote does not guarantee a strike, it brings the union closer to the possibility of a walkout.
Education Minister Stephen Lecce’s spokesperson expressed disappointment regarding the union’s move towards a potential strike but affirmed the government’s commitment to working with the conciliator to reach a fair deal that provides stability for families.
OECTA is one of the two major teaching unions in Ontario that has not yet reached a deal with the province. The secondary and elementary teaching unions have previously reached agreements with the Ford government, including provisions for binding arbitration.
OECTA President Rene Jansen in De Wal acknowledged the patience of his members and expressed hope that conciliation would help both sides reach a fair, negotiated agreement that benefits all Catholic teachers, students, and families.
If negotiations fail to reach a resolution, the union would consider the process concluded with a “no-board” report, initiating a countdown to a potential strike. Once the Ministry of Labour issues the no-board notice, the union must wait 17 days before educators can legally engage in strike action, providing school boards and parents with time to prepare for any potential disruptions.
