Prince George, B.C. – BCTF president Jim Iker has requested a meeting with Premier Christy Clark to help put an end to the government-teacher’s dispute.

“She met with the truckers during the dispute at the docks, why not with me,” said Iker during a conference call this afternoon.

“It’s up to the Premier to step in and help get this deal done so that kids and teachers can get back to classes.”

Iker said he would be willing and ready to meet “tonight” to hammer out a deal.

He also dismissed speculation teacher’s want to be legislated back to work and asserted the union won’t put aside their Supreme Court of BC victory as suggested by the provincial government during bargaining.

Asked how long teachers can afford to go without pay, Iker admitted some teachers are struggling financially because their strike fund has run dry.

But he also added the union does have a hardship fund at their disposal and says the BCTF has been receiving donations.