Jersey teachers accept government offer after pay dispute

There had been a long-running dispute over pay

Jersey teachers' pay dispute has ended after members of the National Education Union (NEU) voted to accept the latest offer from the States.

It comes after a long-running dispute over pay, with a number of strikes taking place.

After Deputy Lyndon Farnham was made Chief Minister and appointed a new council of ministers, an improved offer was given to the union.

The senior regional officer for the NEU said they would now "move forward".

Nick Childs said: "We are pleased that this long running and entirely avoidable dispute has been resolved."

'Last resort'

The union accepted an 8% rise this year, then inflation plus 1% for the next year. Teachers will also receive a one-off payment of £1,500.

Mr Childs added: "We welcome the constructive approach from the new government and only regret that such an approach was not taken at an earlier stage by the previous administration when strike action could and should have been avoided."

He added strike action was a "last resort" but members "have been clear that previous offers were not acceptable and failed to address long term pay decline and a consequent crisis in recruitment and retention in Jersey".

Members of the NEU accepted the newest offer by a 96% yes vote on a 70% turnout.

'Period of stability'

The NASUWT had also confirmed its members would accept the revised offer.

Chief Minister, Deputy Lyndon Farnham said: "Settling the teachers' pay dispute was a high priority for the new government and I hope this resolution reinforces our shared commitment to the success and prosperity of our valued educational community.

"I would like to express thanks to all parties involved for their willingness to engage in further constructive dialogue, which led us to this common ground.

"I very much hope we can now all look forward to a period of stability and opportunity for both teachers and pupils."