Doug Ford says he'll withdraw contract imposed, if strike called off
Ontario's Premier is willing to budge in the dispute with Ontario education workers.
This morning, Doug Ford said he'll withdraw a law imposing a contract on workers, provided they withdraw their strike.
He adds the government has been fair with its offer, contrary to what the Canadian Union of Public Employees wanted for 55,000 people.
"CUPE demanded a nearly 12% annual raise. When combined with all other benefits, CUPE was demanding a nearly 50% increase in compensation," he says.
Ford added Ontario education workers are among the best paid in Canada.
The premier also revealed concern with how the strike by education workers will impact the province.
He said private sector unions worry their workers, such as construction sites, won't be able to show for work if their children aren't in school. "Because if CUPE continues to strike, then these parents won't be able to go to the construction sites. And that goes for people right across the province. You can't disrupt and hold captive the whole province."
The premier said he's willing to withdraw using the notwithstanding clause, adding taxpayers pay the education workers, and he is responsible to ensure that money is handled properly.
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