For Immediate Release
November 1st, 2019
NB NDP Interim Leader Responds to Education Ministers “short-sighted” omission
Party Leader calls Education Minister’s Green Paper a “devaluation of support staff services”
Fredericton, NB, CANADA- Interim NB NDP Leader Mackenzie Thomason called Education Minister Dominic Cardy’s Green Paper on Education “short-sighted and neglectful” after it was revealed that not only were members of CUPE 2745 (representing Education and Administrative Assistants, Librarians, and Bus attendants) not formally consulted during the creation of the Green Paper, but also shows “…parents and students how little value the Education Minister places on the Union’s contributions to schools and classrooms.”
The comments follow widespread criticism on the Green Paper from both the Opposition Education Critic and NBTA leadership. “It would appear that Minister Cardy, like several previous Education Ministers, is trying to change the Education system in New Brunswick to leave a legacy,” stated Thomason. “I have to wonder why he felt that he was going to be the saviour of education in New Brunswick without asking workers that are on the front lines. It is clear that he doesn’t see the value or importance of Education Assistants in our schools- to the detriment of all students, and especially those with behavioural and intellectual disabilities. I hope the Minister will strive to repair the image of their disregard and disrespect towards our public sector unions” Thomason stated.
Mackenzie Thomason is the Interim Leader of the New Brunswick NDP. He is focused on helping grow the NB NDP to be ready for the next provincial election.
-30-
William Blanchette
Executive Director of New Brunswick’s NDP
924 Prospect St, Suite 104
Fredericton, NB, E3B 2T9
Tel: (506) 458-5828
Email: media@nbndp.ca