Sask. Teachers' Federation agrees to binding arbitration to end contract dispute

The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) has agreed to binding arbitration with the province, which will put an end to current 'work to rule' job action and a contract dispute that has dragged out more than a year.

The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) has agreed to binding arbitration with the province, which will put an end to current “work to rule” job action and a contract dispute that has dragged out more than a year.

STF president Samantha Becotte announced the update in a virtual media availability on Friday afternoon.

“This decision to participate in binding arbitration is a direct result of securing a written communication from the GTBC [Government Trustee Bargaining Committee] that classroom complexity would be within the scope of arbitration,” she said. 

Binding arbitration includes a neutral third party joining negotiations and listening to proposals from both sides before making a decision on the best path forward to end the contract stalemate.

Job action will end on Friday at 4 p.m. and there will be no further sanctions imposed, according to Becotte.

Becotte said while it is unfortunate that they could not reach an agreement at the bargaining table, the joint submission for binding arbitration provides an opportunity for progress on classroom complexity.

“I wish to thank teachers for their solidarity, adaptability and commitment to our shared goals. It has been a challenging school year. Teachers have always put the needs of all of their current students and future students first. Their support and strength have inspired us through this bargaining process,” she said.