Quebec's English school boards to mount legal fight over budget cuts
English school boards in Quebec plan to challenge the province's new education funding rules in court, calling them unconstitutional and unworkable.
The cuts, which were initially announced in June, could force boards to cancel programs, reduce special education services, or even close schools, said Joe Ortona, president of the Quebec English School Boards Association.
Ortona said at the centre of the dispute is Quebec's move to block boards from accessing their accumulated budget surpluses. The funds were saved for future needs and belong to the boards, not the province.
'That money belongs to us,' he said.
While the province hasn't said it will take the money back, the uncertainty has left boards cautious.
'We've learned to expect anything from this government.'
The new funding rules also introduce what Ortona called 'unrealistic and arbitrary' conditions. For example, one limit he described was how many staff boards can hire. This comes despite the period for staffing already being finalized in May under union agreements.
'Many boards can't meet the staffing cap without breaking union contracts,' he added.
Ortona also warned the rules could force cuts to support staff and student services. Areas already under pressure, such as speech therapy, psychological services, and tutoring, could face deeper reductions.
A legal challenge is being prepared and is expected to be filed before the school year begins.
He said some boards have already signed on, while others are reviewing their finances before joining.
'We've been working with our lawyers since these cuts were announced,' Ortona said. 'We're trying to protect our right to deliver the services students need.'
He did not provide further details about the legal action, saying it would be premature to comment.
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