Steve MacLellan

Doug Ford’s government would have Ontarians believe it is making concessions on funding for special education support to secure a deal — but those involved in negotiations say the Ford government’s math doesn’t add up.

According to the government’s press release:

The Supports for Students Fund will provide a total of $148 million, an amount equivalent to the remaining amount of the previously negotiated Local Priorities Fund, in the last round of bargaining.

During the press conference, Lecce insisted “the fund is consistent with the local priorities fund established during the last round of bargaining” and “reflects the voluntary agreement signed by CUPE and EWAO.”

“Protecting frontline services such as special education workers, educational assistance, youth and child workers as well,” Lecce added.

Except the $148 million in “total” funding Lecce announced appears to be nearly a hundred million dollars lower than had been previously committed to.