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- calendar_today October 28, 2026
Possible Province-Wide Strike Looms for Nova Scotia School Support Workers
The union representing school support workers in Nova Scotia is preparing for a province-wide strike that could begin next Monday if no agreement is reached with the provincial government. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) announced its intention to issue a 48-hour strike notice on Friday unless their demands are met.
Union and Government Negotiations Ongoing
Negotiations between CUPE and the Nova Scotia government have been ongoing for the past 10 months. The talks have centered around wage increases and improved conditions for education support staff. Nelson Scott, chair of the Nova Scotia School Board Council of Unions (NSSBCU), expressed that union members feel a significant wage increase is necessary.
Union’s Wage Increase Demand
Scott stated, "Our members have made it quite clear that they need a decent minimum wage. And we think, believe that $3.50 over four years is not a whole lot to ask for." The union is asking for a $3.50 per hour raise spread across four years, which they believe is a reasonable request given the current climate.
Who Are the School Support Workers?
The NSSBCU brings together the presidents of eight CUPE locals that represent school support staff across Nova Scotia. These education support staff include education program assistants (EPAs), lead early childhood educators, bus drivers, janitors, and cafeteria workers. The roles these employees play are vital to the operation and environment of schools throughout the province.
Potential Impact and Strike Details
Should the planned province-wide strike proceed, more than 5,500 nova scotia school support workers could be on the picket lines. Scott recognized the difficulties a strike would pose, empathizing with the students and families who would be affected. "I empathize with the students and families who would be affected by the strike," said Scott.
Next Steps if a Deal is Not Reached
The union has given the provincial government until Friday to meet its demands before a 48-hour strike notice is issued. If negotiations do not result in an agreement by then, the school support workers could begin their strike on Monday.
Source: globalnews.ca.
