Province to Issue Recommendations on Fort McMurray School Labour Dispute

FORT MCMURRAY, Alberta — The province is set to release its recommendations to resolve a labour dispute between support staff and the Fort McMurray Public and Catholic school divisions.

The Government of Alberta convened two Dispute Inquiry Boards last month after contract talks between CUPE Locals 2559 and 2545 and the school divisions broke down. The boards were tasked with investigating the dispute and making recommendations to the Ministry of Labour. The ministry’s proposal, expected on Oct. 16, aims to prevent a strike that was initially planned for mid-September.

Danielle Danis, president of CUPE Local 2559, said the union locals will vote on the proposal as soon as possible. If members reject it, the union intends to reissue a 72-hour strike notice.