The Ontario government intends to introduce legislation that, if passed, would ensure school contracts fit the government’s fiscal and policy priorities and contain measures to secure two years free from labour disruptions.

If the legislation is passed, it would require that school boards and local bargaining units of teachers and support staff accept local agreements consistent with the priorities reflected in the Memorandum of Understanding between the government and the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association and similar agreements negotiated before Aug. 31. 

Specifically, the proposed Act, if passed, would require that the parties negotiate or accept agreements that include zero per cent salary increases in 2012-13 and 2013-14.

All teachers will take a 1.5 per cent pay cut in the form of three unpaid professional development days and Eliminate of the current retirement gratuity for payment of unused sick days

The proposed legislation, if passed, would take effect on Sept. 1.