here is that 42% of the population feel that a lack of EBP may affect their choice to find employment in Ontario!
Another respondent stated that "we all have rights to benefit plans and i personally think everyone should have access to at least some amount of benefits as soon as employment starts, [sic]." Perhaps the government could, like the respondent said, provide steps to the benefits program where all OT's will be able to have access to a limited EBP that can cover some medical costs. This is a key factor in understanding the impact of this contract. The students realize that this is a difficult climate, but they also feel like they do deserve some type of coverage. The two reflections at the end of the survey were not required responses and because the students replied to it, shows that this issue could be looked upon as a "state of emergency" for educators as they apply for positions in the near future. We need to realize that the collective agreement does not support educators to be independent and healthy for the students that they are with. Even though most TC's say that they do not have or know anyone who requires medical assistance, all participants felt concerned about the current contract. I would have to agree that "Over a year is insane. The government and the union have already compromised a lot of teacher benefits and to compromise one's health is too much."The majority of participants said it was unethical to leave teachers without EBP for over a year. It is important to note that those who said that it was ethical, stated that the waiting time equaled to a "probationary period."