ETFO Algoma, Waterloo Region locals begin work-to-rule December 17

TORONTO, Dec. 17, 2012 /CNW/ - ETFO Algoma public elementary teachers and occasional teachers have begun work-to-rule as of December 17, 2012, as have Waterloo Region teachers, occasional teachers, and designated early childhood educators (DECEs).

These ETFO locals received no board reports 17 days ago through the conciliator appointed by the Ministry of Labour to resolve the bargaining impasse with their respective school boards.

"Bill 115 has brought bargaining in these locals to a standstill. It is unfortunate that our members in Algoma and Waterloo Region must withdraw from all administrative activities to protect their rights," said Sam Hammond, president of the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario (ETFO).

"These members will continue to teach students and ensure student safety," added Hammond.

Local bargaining stalled following the passage in September of Bill 115, which has imposed drastic cuts to ETFO members' collective agreements and attacked their democratic rights.

During votes taken in the fall, the ETFO locals received an overwhelming mandate for strike action from their members. The Ontario Labour Relations Act requires that a strike mandate and a no board report must be received, and 16 days must pass following the receipt of the no board report, before legal strike action can occur. 

SOURCE: Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario

For further information in Algoma, contact:
Kelly Holley, Algoma Teacher Local, 705-254-9945, [email protected]
Peter Mead, Algoma Occasional Teacher Local, 705-257-0556, [email protected]

For further information in Waterloo Region, contact:
Greg Weiler, Waterloo Region Teacher Local, 519-404-2582, [email protected]
Judith Cutts, Waterloo Region Occasional Teacher Local, 519-998-6370, [email protected]
Jenn Wallage, Waterloo DECE Local, 519-503-1077, [email protected]