VICTORIA – New Democrat spokesperson for education Rob Fleming released the following statement:

“The only way to reach a fair settlement and ensure kids are in classrooms on Sept. 2 is to get both sides back to the table as quickly as possible. The willingness of both sides to start mediation is a positive sign.

“However, the B.C. Liberals must not squander this momentum as they have so many times before in this dispute, by putting up roadblocks, arbitrary deadlines and impossible pre-conditions.

“The B.C. Liberal government must absolutely and sincerely drive towards a resolution to get kids back in classrooms on Sept. 2, and that means removing any obstacles so mediator Vince Ready can have the tools to do his job and mediate a resolution.

“If mediation can successfully begin and show signs of steady progress, both sides should voluntarily suspend their job action so schools can be open while bargaining continues. This is the signal British Columbians have been waiting for all summer.”

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