CUPE stands in solidarity with Nova Scotia Teachers Union

HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA--(Marketwired - Oct. 27, 2016) - CUPE sends a message of solidarity and support to teachers across Nova Scotia today, in their efforts to gain a fair collective agreement with the McNeil government.

"On behalf of the 19,000 members of CUPE Nova Scotia, including 4,000 school board support staff, I want to express our full support for the membership of the Nova Scotia Teachers Union," says CUPE Nova Scotia President Nan McFadgen.

"Premier McNeil is creating havoc in the public service and he clearly does not understand the difficulties faced by workers. He doesn't see the financial pressures and emotional strain placed on workers and their families when they are not able to negotiate their own wages, benefits and working conditions," says McFadgen.

"Teachers deserve recognition for their hard work over the years to help improve the education system in Nova Scotia. It is time for the Province to meet with teachers to have a round of bargaining in which they are able to bargain their wages, and to work in an environment where their expertise is taken into consideration when decisions are made for the betterment of students and schools."

"Rather than impose contract terms, he should allow the collective bargaining process to function as it was intended," states McFadgen.

"Teachers have sent a clear message, rejecting McNeil's strong-arm approach and CUPE fully supports NSTU members in their struggle, and all public employees, until such a time as the Liberal government shows the workforce the respect it deserves."