Minister disappointed in comments from NLTA President

January 6, 1999
(Education)

"Education reform is working contrary to recent comments in the media by Brendan Doyle, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers Association," said the Judy Foote, Minister of Education.

"We can't expect all issues to be resolved overnight but certainly the quality of education that students in Newfoundland and Labrador are receiving is constantly improving," said Minister Foote.

As a result of severe decline in student enrolment, there would have been a reduction of 422 teachers this year. Government, however, decided to limit this reduction to 220 teachers. As well, government has allocated an additional 50 teachers for students who have specific learning disabilities.

The matter of teacher workload was discussed during the most recent round of collective bargaining between government, the school boards, and the NLTA. As a result of these discussions, it was agreed by government, the school boards, and the NLTA to conduct a study of the teacher workday/year. "It would seem premature to make comments on this matter or to propose solutions until the study which is required by the collective agreement, is complete," said Minister Foote.

"Government's first priority with expected savings from reform is to construct new facilities and refurbish and redevelop existing schools. Last spring government announced $50 million dollars for capital construction projects for schools, and shortly before Christmas an additional $75 million was announced. This total amount of $125 million represents the largest single investment in educational infrastructure since Confederation.

"Last summer repairs and maintenance and air quality projects were carried out in 200 schools, ensuring that the students of Newfoundland and Labrador have a safe, clean and comfortable learning environment. This was the most ambitious repair and maintenance program ever carried out," said Minister Foote. "More than 150 schools underwent repairs such as painting of classrooms, exterior painting, repairs to floors, siding, entrances, walkways, heating systems, washrooms, construction and construction of play grounds and other general refurbishing of school buildings."

"Government also reinvested close to $6 million in air quality related projects for up to 200 schools," said Minister Foote. Remediation actions included roof repair or replacement, repairing water damaged ceiling tiles and wall materials, replacing carpets with tile flooring, repairing existing windows or installing new operable windows that open at the top, improving or adding ventilation systems to increase air circulation and improve humidity and temperature levels.

Minister Foote expressed disappointment that the first time she heard Mr. Doyle voice his concerns it was through the media.

"The first phase of education reform focused on consolidation of school boards and schools," said Minister Foote. "This phase is nearing completion and government is anxious to work with educators to improve teaching and enhancing learning in our schools.

"Education is a priority for this government. We will continue to make good on our commitment to provide the best opportunities possible to the students of this province in preparing them to meet the challenges of the new millennium," said Minister Foote.

Media contact: Nancy Healey (709) 729-0048.

1998 01 06 4:40 p.m.

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