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Union says too many educational assistants cut; province says increase coming

REGINA – Saskatchewan members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees are complaining about the decreasing number of educational assistants in the province.

At a news conference Wednesday, CUPE officials say they have learned that 350 fulltime equivalent EA positions have been cut since 2007.

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While an increase in positions like speech pathologists and occupational therapists has offset that, the union’s Jackie Christianson says EA’s cannot be replaced and teachers need their help.

Saskatchewan Education Minister Donna Harpauer says even if EA positions are dropping now, she anticipates an increase in the future.

She says the Saskatchewan Party government has been aggressive in increasing pre-kindergarten programs.

Harpauer says school boards are acting on recommendations from the disability community and parents; which include more specialized positions like speech pathologists, occupational therapists and psychologists.

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(CKOM)

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