3 times a charm? Dale Kirby states, restates his explanation of 'over my dead body' comment
MHA David Brazil pressed Kirby in Tuesday's House of Assembly sitting
When challenged in the House of Assembly on whether or not the education system will face more cuts, Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Dale Kirby had but a few words.
Conception Bay East-Bell Island MHA David Brazil was pressing Kirby Tuesday over his recent comments that over his "dead body" would there be further cuts to teaching staff.
"I said what I meant and I meant what I said. I clarified my comments and they were subsequently backed up by the premier and there's nothing further I can tell you," Kirby said.
Kirby repeated the statement three times.
Defining 'cuts'
Last week, Kirby "clarified" his original comment that he "could not possibly continue to do this job if there are any reductions," when he stated in an email to CBC he was referring to the teacher allocation formula, not job cuts.
The allocation formula bases the number of teachers on the number of students. So, a school with a shrinking number of students could see fewer teachers.
Brazil asked what actions Kirby is taking to ensure teacher jobs are safe, and the education system enhanced.
I said what I meant and I meant what I said- Dale Kirby
Kirby pointed to the province's task force on education.
"The premier has established a task force which is reviewing the education system. [It] has a broad mandate to look at important matters such as inclusive education, reading literacy, math, student mental health and wellness, a host of other issues," Kirby said.
"This is a once in a decade opportunity for people to provide feedback. Once we get recommendations, we will develop a comprehensive education action plan which we said would be put to force in September 2018."
While Brazil repeatedly asked if there would be more job cuts for teachers, Kirby said the government has followed through with election promises like establishing the education task force and full-day kindergarten.
"We are doing everything that we can with the mess that we've been left with by the previous administration to improve education in this province," he said.