Teaching union causing harm to education in Jersey, government says

The government says the NASUWT is "causing harm" to education with industrial action short of a strike

Jersey's education minister has accused a union of "causing harm to parents, children, and teachers" with planned industrial action short of a strike.

The States Employment Board (SEB) confirmed the NASUWT would start a work-to-rule from Monday.

Teaching unions remain in negotiations with the government over a new multi-year pay deal.

Inna Gardiner said she was "frustrated" there had been no deal agreed. The NASUWT has been contacted for comment.

'Pupils face effects'

She said: "Like many parents and pupils, I am disappointed that NASUWT have made the decision to continue with the planned escalation of their action short of a strike.

"In taking this action, NASUWT are causing harm to parents, children, and teachers."

Deputy Gardiner said she was "keen to see all sides reach a compromise", but added that "pupils will be affected" while negotiations continued.

Constable Andy Jehan, SEB vice chair, said a one-off payment to ensure a 20-day notice of future proposed industrial action had been rejected by NASUWT.

He said: "To resolve the 2023 dispute, and to ensure the well-being and safeguarding of our children and young people, the SEB offered a one-off payment to teachers in return for an essential service agreement that would provide 20 days' notice for any future proposed industrial action.

"The agreement was proposed to protect and safeguard the most vulnerable children and young people.

"Disappointingly, the offer was rejected."

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