Title: Alberta Teachers Face Possible Return to Work Order

The Alberta government is preparing to take action against striking teachers if a deal is not reached soon. Nate Horner, the budget chief in Premier Danielle Smith’s administration, has made it clear that teachers will be ordered back to work if negotiations do not progress.

Horner stated, "We go back to session on Oct. 27 in earnest. I would expect we would begin that process almost immediately. That would mean we would be at three weeks with kids out of school. I think that meets the bar. If we’re this far apart I hope we are still talking but I think it will be seen as an inevitable thing." He expressed concern about the widening gap between the two sides, saying, "In a way I feel we are further apart than ever."

The Smith government has proposed a pay increase of 12 percent over four years, with some teachers receiving a 17 percent raise. Additionally, the government has committed to hiring 3,000 new teachers and funding 1,500 educational assistants. However, this offer was rejected by teachers, leading to a provincewide strike.

The Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) has responded with demands that could add an estimated $2 billion in costs over four years, on top of the $2.6 billion already proposed. Horner noted that the teachers are also seeking strict limits on class sizes. He acknowledged the frustrations within the education system, attributing some of the issues to a population surge in Alberta without a corresponding economic boom.

Horner emphasized the challenges the government faces, stating, "We’re building schools as fast as we possibly can. We’ve shown we are willing to go right to a reasonable spot on salary. But we have to be realistic about where we’re going." He pointed out that the province is dealing with a significant budget deficit and that lower oil prices are complicating financial matters.

Horner expressed urgency in resolving the situation, saying, "If we mess around here I view it as wasting time and forcing government to send them back at a later date. I want kids back in class. I know my wife does. I know everyone does."

ATA President Jason Schilling has stated that the teachers' proposals are fair and that they have public support. He expressed a desire for a resolution but noted that the current offer from the government lacks viability. Schilling remarked, "We will not stand by and watch classrooms crumble," and he believes the government has room to negotiate.

When asked about potential actions if the government orders teachers back to work, Schilling said, "We will cross that bridge when we come to it." He refrained from speculating on whether teachers would be willing to make concessions, stating, "I’m not going to presuppose what teachers would be willing to give up."

As the strike continues, the looming date of Oct. 27 may mark a critical turning point in negotiations between the Alberta government and teachers.