Houston government ignoring education support workers is unacceptable

HALlFAX– As striking CUPE workers head into the second week of their job action, the Houston government is continuing to ignore these essential education support staff. Working for less than a living wage, these workers deserve to be treated with respect.

“We have a terrible situation with the most vulnerable students being denied their right to an education and support workers who can’t get by on the wages they’re being offered. And with pre-primary shutdown, parents are struggling to cover child care,” said NDP Leader Claudia Chender. “When we hear from parents, they all talk about how unfair it is for these workers to be paid less than a living wage. They want their children back in school, with their EPA. It is incumbent on Tim Houston to get back to the negotiating table and work out a deal.”

Education support workers in HRM have been on strike since last Wednesday. The Premier and his Education Minister need to return to the bargaining table and work out a fair deal.

“All students deserve an education, and all education support workers deserve a fair wage,” said NDP Education spokesperson Suzy Hansen. “The Houston government needs to stop ignoring the ECEs, EPAs, and other support workers that make sure all students, no matter their needs, get the education they deserve. Everyone who supports students in schools should be able to financially support themselves.”

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