Ontario’s Education Minister isn’t impressed with a decision from the union representing some 55,000 education workers to hold strike votes next month.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees is looking for annual increases of 11.7%, while the government has offered 2% a year for workers making less than $40,000 and 1.25% for everyone else.

Stephen Lecce says they have tabled a proposal that is fair for the workers and provides stability for the students.

He believes the response from CUPE members is unreasonable and suggests the union was on a path to strike before it even saw the first offer.

“I believe a 52% increase is astronomical, unreasonable and not consisted with those footing the bill which is the taxpayer of Ontario. We want a deal that keeps kids in class. There’s nothing more important.”

Lecce adds, “We have been absolutely clear, the Premier and our entire government, that children must remain in school with a normal, stable and enjoyable return. That includes extra-curricular’s, that includes the clubs, the sports, the elements we know help to build a well rounded student leader.”

He stresses the government knows these negotiations are important and they value their education workers.

CUPE says talks between the two are scheduled to resume Friday.