Teachers’ union and education ministry should ponder over these in the interim

Dear Editor,

Now that the negotiations have once again stalled between the GTU and the MoE, both sides should revisit what is possible. Although not exhaustive, CRG suggest considering discussions around the following:

None wage compensation 

Interest free loans for housing

Subsidized utility expenses 

Interest free loans for transportation 

Subsidized insurance payments where the government pays a percentage of the NIS contribution for retirement benefits 

Additional time off / vacation 

Additional sick leave 

Duty free benefits for teacher related purchases

Free health insurance and death benefits 

Free training that allows for wage increases upon completion 

Tenured teaching positions for senior teachers and head teachers

Compulsory collective bargaining for each contract negotiation 

Wages

A percentage increase in wages that is inflation indexed

A percentage increase tied to the maximum  increase provided in other sectors including parliament

A pay scale that is both seniority and performance based

Overtime pay 

Shared performance bonuses based on common entrance and CXC results 

Increase in paid time off 

Increase in uniform and transportation allowances 

Sincerely,

Jamil Changlee

Chairman

The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana