Montreal demonstrators demand massive reinvestment in education

Parents and teachers marched in Montreal to demand reinvestment into the Quebec school system.

Hundreds of teachers and parents gathered Saturday afternoon in Montreal to demand that the Liberal government make a massive reinvestment in education.

They called it a fight to save Quebec schools.

The event was organized by the Fédération autonome de l'enseignement (FAE), which has not yet entered into any contractual agreement with the government.

“They are closing their eyes,” said teacher Nathalie Hebert. “They are not facing the reality of what we are living.”

The protesters began their march at 1:30 p.m. in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve neighbourhood, passing by dilapidated schools as well as institutions for children with special needs or from disadvantaged backgrounds, to draw attention to the challenges of the public school system in Quebec.

“In 10 years, there have been over $1 billion in cuts. The system can't handle it anymore,” said Christian Lapierre of the FAE.

FAE President Sylvain Mallette said the group wants to send a clear message defending public schools and fighting to improve student learning conditions, social issues they say go far beyond the ongoing negotiations with the government.

They want to improve working conditions, and have better schools that are mould-free.

“Nine of 10 have the worse note possible in terms of evaluation of conditions. This is a nightmare for the kids,” said Pascale Grignon, spokesperson of “I protect my public school.”

Teacher Paul Jireada said it’s plain and simple – they want resources.

“So many kids need help. So many kids need certain services that are not available to them and a lot of kids are just giving up,” he said.

The FAE is set to go back to the negotiating table next week and they're also voting on a new plan of action that includes more pressure tactics.