Released on September 17, 2019
Today, the Government Trustee Bargaining Committee (GTBC), made up of representatives from the Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan School Boards Association, met with the Teachers’ Bargaining Committee to begin negotiations on a new contract for teachers.
Upon approval of the Teachers’ Bargaining Committee, the GTBC has offered a three-year deal including:
Year 1 – 2019-20
- a $1,500 one-time payment per full-time teacher is being proposed (using repurposed extended health plan contributions to reduce the plan’s $80 million surplus)
Year 2 – 2020-21
- two per cent salary increase
Year 3 – 2021-22
- two per cent salary increase
“Our government values the work teachers do each and every day to support our students,” Deputy Premier and Education Minister Gordon Wyant said. “This offer is fair and it positions Saskatchewan teachers to continue to be paid above the Western Canadian average.”
The proposal would include a $1,500 one-time payment per full-time teacher which would be provided upon ratification of the agreement. It is being proposed that these funds, totalling $18 million be repurposed from the annual $22 million government-funded contribution to the extended health plan. This will bring the extended health plan surplus closer to industry standards, while not reducing existing benefits. Teachers working less than a full-time contract would receive a prorated amount.
“The Government Trustee Bargaining Committee is looking forward to working together with the Teachers’ Bargaining Committee over the coming days and weeks to reach a fair deal for teachers,” GTBC Chair Don Hoium said.
Teachers received a one per cent salary increase on August 31, 2019, the last day of the previous agreement.
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For more information, contact:
Chris Hodges
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: chris.hodges@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506