The report of the task force established to address the salary proposals for teachers was handed over on Friday and Minister of Education Nicolette Henry expressed optimism that its recommendations can be satisfied and implemented.
The report was submitted by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education Vibert Welch in the presence of members of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), including the General-Secretary Coretta McDonald, Finance Secretary Hector Butts, representatives of the Ministry of Communities, Ministry of the Presidency and the Department of Public Service.
According to the Department of Public Information report, Welch noted that the task force, which was established in November, deliberated strongly for three months on salary and non-salary issues, such as allowances, debunching and matters highlighted by the Commission of Inquiry in to the Education sector. Several of these matters originated from the union’s multi-year wages proposal. He was reported as saying that he along with other members of the task force are optimistic that Cabinet would look favourably on the recommendations put forward.
Henry expressed the same hope, while noting that since a number of government agencies and the GTU were represented on the task force, the recommendations made should be achievable.
She said that she will present the document to Cabinet, where it will be examined in its entirety.
GTU President, Mark Lyte was reported as expressing satisfaction with the proposals and recommendations made.
He said that it is important that the work of teachers in the classroom is recognised and stressed that the GTU looks forward to a favourable response from Cabinet on the issues to be addressed.
