Prince George, B.C. – A new opinion poll released by Angus Reid Global today suggests public opinion is shifting when it comes to the teachers dispute.

The online survey shows 36% of respondents are most inclined to support teachers while 35% back the BC Government. 25% support neither side.

Among parents or direct caregivers, 38% support the teacher’s while 34% support the government.

“This represents a softening of support for teachers among parents or caregivers from an earlier ARG poll conducted in June, which revealed they supported teachers two-to-one over government (49% to 25%),” says spokesperson Shachi Kurl.

She says the poll also found parents have almost no hope a deal will be struck in time for the start of the school year next week.

“Fully 89% say it is unlikely the BCTF and the BC Government will reach an agreement by Tuesday. 11% believe an agreement in the next 96 hours will be achieved.”

It’s worth noting the survey was conducted prior to today’s meeting between the BCTF, the province and mediator Vince Ready.