The Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL) is mobilizing in response to the Alberta government’s recent legislative actions impacting teachers’ rights. Following the passing of the Back to School Act, AFL President Gil McGowan announced that unions would organize efforts toward a potential general strike.
Background on Teachers’ Strike
Teachers in Alberta have faced significant challenges recently. A strike initiated on October 6 was driven by concerns over stagnant wages that have not kept pace with inflation and deteriorating classroom conditions. By October 9, the situation escalated as employers locked teachers out.
The Alberta government intervened with the Back to School Act, which was swiftly passed, mandating the return of 51,000 educators across public, Catholic, and francophone schools. This legislation imposed a contract that nearly 90% of teachers had previously rejected.
Legislative Implications
The Back to School Act invoked the notwithstanding clause, effectively suspending the teachers’ rights to bargain collectively. This move prevents any legal challenges and stalls negotiations over local issues until at least September 2028.
Reactions from Labour Leaders
- Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, emphasized the broader implications of the government’s actions on workers’ rights nationwide.
- McGowan indicated that the AFL may organize a general strike if necessary, highlighting the urgency of fostering solidarity among unions.
Potential for General Strike
McGowan expressed that while immediate action towards a general strike is not being called, preparations are underway. He emphasized the necessity of gauging union and public sentiment regarding such a significant move against the government.
Legal expert Malini Vijaykumar noted that labour leaders must act swiftly to leverage support before it wanes. For a general strike to have impact, McGowan believes it must involve substantial numbers to disrupt institutional responses.
Unions Uniting for Action
The AFL comprises 24 unions with a collective membership of approximately 175,000. These unions are collaborating within a collective known as the Common Front, unified under the belief that an attack on any worker’s rights is an affront to all.
- McGowan aims to challenge the United Conservative Party (UCP) government through strategies including recall campaigns against UCP Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).
- AB Resistance is assisting citizens in organizing these campaigns, which recently received approval for signature collection targeting Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides.
Government’s Response
Finance Minister Nate Horner, who introduced the Back to School Act, downplayed the AFL’s plans, suggesting they lacked concrete proposals. He asserted that no public sector workers are legally positioned to strike at this moment, and penalties will follow any illegal actions.
Additionally, Minister Dale Nally criticized the recall campaign as a maneuver to precipitate early elections, noting the UCP’s precarious majority in the legislature, which includes 47 of 87 seats.
Conclusion
The current situation in Alberta reflects a critical moment for the labour movement, with unions preparing for potential action to defend workers’ rights. The initiatives by the AFL signal a growing unrest that may unfold if the government’s stance remains unchanged.
