The Ontario government claims that optometrists aren’t at the negotiating table. Below is the OAO’s official response:

In late August, the OAO accepted an invitation to mediation with the Ontario government to fight for high-quality eye care for our patients. After only two days, it became abundantly clear that the Ministry of Health was not there to negotiate in good faith. Instead of focusing on a real, long-term solution, the government used the process as a publicity stunt. The government breached confidentiality when disclosing confidential information to the public, and imposed a one-time payment that was never negotiated. These actions demonstrate the government’s lack of commitment… More