Jason Schow outlines fall sitting
EDMONTON — Alberta’s government says it is prepared to use “whatever means necessary,” including back-to-work legislation, to ensure students return to class if the ongoing teachers’ strike continues.
Government House Leader Joseph Schow said the issue remains a priority as the fall sitting of the legislature begins Thursday. While no bill has yet been tabled, he confirmed the government is reviewing legislative options to end the dispute, which has closed classrooms across the province.
“If it becomes necessary to act, we will act,” Schow said, adding that cabinet will meet within the next 24 hours to discuss next steps.
Schow said any potential legislation would be introduced in the legislature, not through an order in council, to avoid the legal challenges that have struck down similar measures in the past. He would not rule out using the notwithstanding clause of Canada’s Constitution to shield any back-to-work law from being overturned in court.
He also confirmed there are currently no plans to provide additional financial supports or learning resources for parents during the strike.
Premier Danielle Smith has previously indicated that back-to-work measures may be announced in the coming days, and both Smith and Schow have reiterated that the best place for students is in the classroom. Smith went further, saying the ongoing labour dispute is causing irreparable harm to students, particularly those in their final years preparing for post-secondary education.
Schow framed the government’s position as one of protecting students and families. “Parents are bleeding time, and kids need to be back in class,” he said.
Labour groups and opposition members have warned that using the notwithstanding clause to force teachers back to work would set a dangerous precedent. “We’re very concerned about back-to-work legislation for teachers,” said Christina Gray, Alberta’s New Democrat House Leader. Alberta’s New Democrats say they will fiercely oppose this potential action by the government. Gray adds that the opposition is especially important because the focus needs to be on properly funding public education in the first place.
At the same time, legal experts say such a move could further inflame tensions between educators and the province.
The government has not provided a timeline for when any back-to-work bill could be introduced.
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