During a news conference today, the Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima, gave the latest developments related to the ongoing talks between the Government and the Union of Teachers, the MUT, regarding the sectoral agreement of educators.
Minister Grima explained that the government is open to continuing with the negotiations, when and if the MUT withdraws the announced industrial actions. He reiterated that in this very delicate period it is important that no one attacks one party or another, especially the educators who play a central role in the students’ lives. He explained that what is offered by the government is a solid basis that offers a substantial improvement in the conditions of educators and that should lead to an agreement being reached with other professionals that is sustainable and recognizes the important role of educators.
The Permanent Secretary within the Ministry Matthew Vella explained in detail the contingency plan that will be in place next Monday, on the day that the MUT called a one-day industrial action. He said that the Ministry recognizes that students in schools must be looked after and every attention is given to their health and safety. Therefore, on Monday 27 November, State primary and secondary schools in Malta and Gozo will open their doors strictly during the school’s official opening hours.
On that day the school will only offer a supervision service and students who will not attend will be marked excused. No medical note or certificate will be needed for that day. Students must be collected by the parent or legal guardian by the normal time that school ends and according to the procedures that are usually used. This means that the service of the Breakfast Club and Club 3-16 will not be provided.
As a result of an evaluation made to ensure the safety of each student as a priority, on Monday 27 November not even the transport to and from school will operate. For this reason also, the Learning Support Centres, the Resource Centres, Gem 16+, Giovanni Curmi Higher Secondary, Sir MA Refalo Sixth Form and the ALP, will not be open. The Ministry also has a service in place to receive phone calls and help all those who will need clarifications or more information during the coming days.
This service is open on 25981150, Thursday 23 November from 13:00 to 17:00; Friday 24 November from 7:30 to 17:00, Saturday 25 November and Sunday 26 November from 7:30 to 12:00 pm and Monday 27 November from 7:30 to 17:00. One can also make contact on 153.
