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2h ago

Alberta’s Notwithstanding Clause Use Spurs Fresh Clash Over Teacher Strikes and Democratic Norms

Letters highlight the Charter override as public debate sharpens around labour action and accountability.

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Overview

  • Recent letters respond to the government’s confirmed invocation of the notwithstanding clause tied to Bill 2, the Back to School Act.
  • Teachers and union voices are reported to be discussing a provincial or general strike, with no province‑wide walkout reported as having occurred.
  • Several letters warn that a broad strike could carry heavy costs, including potential tax increases to offset wage demands and lost revenue.
  • Other submissions accuse the UCP of undermining democratic rights, including allegations of raising gift limits and withholding required public‑opinion survey results.
  • Counterarguments claim unions are threatening the democratic process, and separate letters challenge proposals for an added teaching month as impractical for classrooms and professional development.