Only a few days before classes resume the unions representing the teachers have said that staff will be back in class regardless of whether a deal is reached.

The president of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation says it’s normal for negotiations to continue, but that the government has been slowing down the process.

Ontario’s education minister released a statement on the expired teaching contracts reading in part, “I stand with parents and will be focused on delivering a deal that protects their children’s future, invests in their potential, and ultimately keeps them in the classroom, where they belong.”

“Students will not face any disruptions to the start of their school year. We will continue to negotiate in good faith, and call on all parties to work harder to reach a deal that supports the needs of students and keeps them in a positive learning environment throughout the year.”