In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1985. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: In the early 1980s, a recession prompted the provincial government to bring in deep cuts and wage controls in various public sectors, including education. In 1983, the Social Credit government brought in “restraint bills” that included changes to and new policies in an effort to reduce education expenditures, as well as changing the taxing powers of school districts. Districts were required to present balanced budgets to be approved by the provincial government. Such cuts to the budgets led to reduced programs, larger classes, times of working-to-rule, and greater reliance on fundraising and parent volunteers. In May 1985, the conflicts between school boards and the government resulted in the firing of all elected Vancouver School Board trustees after the board refused to submit a budget that fit within the provincial guidelines, claiming that such cuts would make it impossible to provide quality education. The trustees were replaced by a government appointed trustee.
Question: Do you think school boards should submit budgets in excess of provincial government spending restrictions?
David Jones – Retired – Whistler
I think teachers should curb their wage demands a little. If they did that, then the level of education would be maintained. As far as I know, if the teachers reduced their demands, education would be fine.
Nancy Wauthier – Mortgage Officer – Vancouver
My gut reaction was that, from an arbitration point of view, you always propose a little more than you really want to ensure you come out with what you need. It’s a bargaining tactic. Although I’m in favour of restraint, the question is can those budgets be cut? I don’t think there’s any question that there are certain inefficiencies in school boards, or in large government departments or private companies.
Jill Brand – Consultant – Vancouver
I think it’s one of the only ways that they get the point across. If they submit within the guidelines, the government will believe they can work within them. I think they have to let them know or else the government won’t get the message.