Efforts are afoot to satisfy some of the outstanding issues that are at the heart of
what appears to be an impasse between the Antigua and Barbuda Union of
Teachers (A&BUT) and the government.
Over the holiday weekend, the Director of Education Clare Browne issued a press
release in which he announced the extension of the Easter school holidays by an
extra week; meaning that, instead of schools reopening for the start of the final
term in the school year today, schools will now reopen next Monday, April 17.
In the press release, the director noted that he was informed by way of a letter
dated April 4, that the A&BUT ‘has signaled its intention to “engage in industrial
action starting April 11th, 2023.” The reason given for the planned course of action
is that the membership of the union is dissatisfied with the progress made by the
government on outstanding issues raised. In light of this, and because children
cannot be left unsupervised or under supervised, particularly at this time of
immense challenge with antisocial behavior among young people, the Ministry of
Education has taken a decision to extend the Easter Vacation by four days,
resorting to the traditional two weeks.’ (See full text of press release).
One of the issues raised is school’s lighting, especially given the high incidence of
vandalism at school plants across the island. Browne has now reported that of the
two schools left to have lighting fixtures installed, the Sir Novelle Richards
Academy and Pares Secondary School, technicians have been working feverishly
over the weekend to have them fitted and operational, by today.
He noted that the government has sought to address the several issues raised by the
A&BUT, including the upgrades, which is about seventy-five percent complete. He
explained that upgrades relate to upgrading the salaries of teachers who after
attaining higher qualifications, are moved to a higher grade or pay structure.
The Director of Education has expressed his concern over the possibility that
industrial action by the teachers, could cause further harm to the students who have
had challenges in the last several years, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He feels
that industrial action at this time would further hinder the learning opportunities for
the nation’s youth.
Point Express contacted the A&BUT for a comment but its General Secretary,
Sharon Clifton-Kelsick said the union will issue a statement today.
