I am writing to implore, not ask, not request, and sorry, not even a "please", to tell you to pass this message on to Mr. Fassbender and Ms. Clark to settle with the teachers. You were elected to represent this riding, and I want you to represent me and many others on this issue.
Very few people vote in provincial elections and fewer write letters to their MLAs. This letter, therefore, represents the views of many more than just me. Few people believe the spin your government has put on this issue. (One reason so few people vote or engage in the political process!) Your government is posting a surplus but cannot afford to put money into education - these two facts do not make sense. Our education system is one of the greatest in the industrial world. I believe that it is a system worth fighting for. You are my MLA. Please listen to my voice and the voice of the many that this letter represents.
Your government has twice been told to allow teachers to bargain working conditions by the courts. You are stuck on this issue in your negotiations. You are not above the law as you should know. You were once a member of the police force. It is appalling that you would be part of a government that disregards the ruling of the courts - twice. Have you forgotten all that you stood for when you promised to "protect and defend"? Shame on you.
Do what is right and send my message and the message this letter represents in the numbers who no longer think their voices are heard, and tell your colleagues closely involved in this dispute, to negotiate, respect the rule of law and get students back in classrooms with teachers who have been offered a fair settlement. This settlement includes being able to bargain working conditions.
Anne Saar
Prince George
