In early Spring 2023, the Hanover School Division commenced the collective bargaining process with CLAC Local 306, which represents our Educational Assistants.
Hanover School Division remains committed to working towards a mutually agreeable settlement with our Educational Assistants. To that end, the parties have successfully agreed on many items raised during the collective bargaining process.
The Division recognizes the valuable work that Educational Assistants perform with our students. The Division is committed to providing a comprehensive and fair offer, recognizing the financial climate and resources available to the Division. Over the past two years, the Division has focused on increasing the number of Educational Assistants to serve and meet the ongoing needs of our students.
As indicated during our 2023-2024 budget consultation process, the Board of Trustees continues to work with the Provincial government to address the needs of our students. The 2023-2024 budget reflects fiscally challenging times for the Hanover School Division. A new funding model is being considered by the Province, and the Hanover School Division eagerly awaits its release. Divisional resources must be managed effectively, efficiently, and in a manner that remains accountable to the public and taxpayers of the Division.
Prior to the strike mandate obtained by the Union and reported in the media, the parties agreed to participate in conciliation and work with a conciliator to assist the parties in attempting to reach an agreement. The Division is committed to focusing its efforts on the agreed-upon process, and the dates for conciliation have been scheduled commencing the week of October 23, 2023. The Division appreciates that labour disruptions can negatively impact students and families in the Hanover community and the Division has requested that, prior to any strike action, as much notice as possible be provided to enable the Division to provide notice to families who may be impacted.
Hanover School Division looks forward to continuing discussions and ensuring that the parties are adequately informed on the relevant matters which remain outstanding. We remain optimistic that an agreement can be reached through the conciliation process.
