Central bargaining update

The Alberta Teachers’ Association’s (ATA) Central Table Bargaining Committee (CTBC) met with the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) on June 7 to begin central table bargaining.

Having previously exchanged initial proposals on May 16, the two sides presented their detailed proposals at the meeting and provided additional background information. ATA chief negotiator Sean Brown said the meeting was cordial and productive, setting a positive tone for future negotiations. He added that, while the tone was receptive, it is quite likely that the initial mandate provided to TEBA will not be enough to address the needs of Alberta teachers. 

“Even with the proposed significant salary increase, which will help teachers catch up and keep up with Alberta’s ever-growing cost of living, the classroom complexity (size and composition) cannot be underscored enough,” Brown said. “The improvements teachers seek will allow all Alberta students to live up to their potential, benefiting all Albertans and adding to our collective prosperity.”

During the June 7 meeting, the CTBC also shared with TEBA a presentation on the current status of Alberta teachers. Based on recent Association research, the presentation included data points on the moral distress of Alberta teachers. This presentation allowed the CTBC to set the table for future discussions. 

CTBC chair Peter MacKay observed that, while nothing controversial was discussed on the first day of bargaining, it is clear that there will be challenges in the next school year for members in achieving their goals. 

“If our needs exceed TEBA’s bargaining mandate—and that is likely—we will be asking teachers to show solidarity and conviction in order to expand that mandate,” MacKay said. 

MacKay emphasized that the CTBC is fiercely committed to advocating for members, adding that it is important for teachers to look after their well-being this year given the high potential for labour action.
“Teachers’ convictions will likely be tested,” MacKay said, “Teachers should be prepared for action.”

The next set of bargaining dates are set for September 9–10, and teachers can expect to be asked by their locals to wear red on those days to show their support.

Members will receive bargaining updates after each session throughout the year. Teachers can also access information on central table bargaining, including the ATA’s initial proposal, by clicking on Collective Bargaining Updates on the ATA homepage at teachers.ab.ca.