NEWS
Jersey dispute
Over 600 people joined an NASUWT-organised rally and march through St Helier, Jersey, to stand up for teachers' pay and against public sector cuts. Banners, whistles and rattles dominated the town centre as members of the public offered vociferous support along the route. A large NASUWT delegation spent the previous
day visiting every school on the island to encourage them to join the rally to raise awareness of an upcoming ballot on industrial action. Crucially, the ballot is not just about teachers' pay but also the provision of public services across the whole of Jersey. The campaign has seen both the NASUWT and the NUT work together in the face of stiff opposition from the island's senators. The march ended at Jersey Opera House, where a number of speakers presented arguments on why the campaign is so important. General Secretary Chris Keates gave a video address in which she praised the fortitude of Jersey members throughout the dispute.
"Let us nail a lie from the beginning. This is not about seeking advantage and privilege for public sector workers..."
She said: “We all know that when economic circumstances are tough, the casualties of the recession depend even more on public services. Communities need education to help them build the expertise to move towards economic recovery. Health, social care and local government services are critical for the wellbeing of local communities. Together, united, I know that we will win justice for public services in Jersey.” Deputy General Secretary Jerry Bartlett has led NASUWT negotiations in Jersey.
Addressing the rally, he said: “Let us nail a lie from the beginning. This is not about seeking advantage and privilege for public sector workers. It is for all workers in Jersey. What is happening to them will happen in the United Kingdom if the General Election goes wrong.”
Urging marchers to vote in the ballot, President Chris Lines said: “The rich are in the minority here and they have been running this place for their own benefit for far too long. The basis of a decent society is a progressive tax system and proper public services with proper pay, so public sector workers can do their job with dignity and not worry about whether they can pay their rent or mortgage.”
www.nasuwt.org.uk
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