(Fort McMurray, AB - November 7th, 2024) The Fort McMurray Public School Division (FMPSD) regrets to announce that the recommendations put forth by the Disputes Inquiry Board (DIB) in the ongoing negotiations with CUPE 2545 have been rejected. This afternoon we have been served a formal strike notice from CUPE 2545 indicating the start of the strike being Wednesday, November 13th, 2024.
Despite our best efforts to reach a mutually agreeable resolution, CUPE’s rejection of the DIB's recommendations and notice to strike does not acknowledge the reality that their position would cost $7.8 million dollars in retroactive pay and $3.4 million this year. This is fiscally impossible and would require reductions in supports and services to students. FMPSD is committed to maintaining transparency with our community during this challenging time and will provide updates as they become available.
FMPSD will communicate to parents via email key details and frequently asked questions; FMPSD has developed a comprehensive contingency plan to ensure our student’s safety and well-being during the CUPE strike action.
We understand that this situation is inconvenient, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through it. Our primary goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff.
We remain committed to negotiating an agreement that maintains the educational supports and services for students and does not require reductions in those supports and services.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s school.
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation.
Office of the Superintendent
Fort McMurray Public School Division
780-799-7900
info@fmpsd.ab.ca