ACTION short of strike action by one of the Island’s largest teaching unions will proceed next week, the vice-chair of the States Employment Board has confirmed.
Constable Andy Jehan added that the latest offer of a one-off payment in return for an agreement for 20 days’ notice for any future proposed industrial action had been rejected by the NASUWT.
In a statement released on Friday afternoon, Mr Jehan said: “I am disappointed to say that we have just received confirmation that the planned escalation of action short of strike action on Monday by the NASUWT will proceed.
“To resolve the 2023 dispute and to ensure the wellbeing and safeguarding of our children and young people the SEB offered a one-off payment to teachers in return for an essential service agreement that would provide 20 days’ notice for any future proposed industrial action. The agreement was proposed to protect and safeguard the most vulnerable children and young people. Disappointingly, the offer was rejected.”
The industrial action was paused this week while the NASUWT engaged in talks with the SEB.
Children’s and Education Minister Inna Gardiner said: “Like many parents and pupils I am disappointed that NASUWT have made the decision to continue with the planned escalation of their action short of a strike. In taking this action, NASUWT are causing harm to parents, children, and teachers.
“Throughout this process, I have been keen to see all sides reach a compromise, and retain a productive relationship: this includes offering to meet with NASUWT myself over the last two weeks. It is frustrating that this decision comes after significant progress on a range of issues that teachers have identified, including changes to terms and conditions, and establishing a multi-year pay deal.
“I will be honest with parents and Islanders: while we will work closely with headteachers to mitigate some of the effects of this action, pupils will be affected. Individual schools will contact parents directly with further details.”
