Alberta Premier Says She’s ‘Disappointed’ Teachers Union Rejected Mediation Request

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she was “disappointed” that the provincial teachers union turned down an offer of mediation to settle an ongoing strike and get students back in the classroom, and confirmed her government is willing to table back-to-work legislation when the legislature reconvenes later this month.

Alberta teachers went on strike on Oct. 6 after a months-long contract dispute between the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) and the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association, which bargains with the union on behalf of school boards. The ATA has called for the province to address classroom complexity and higher salaries.