IOM Teachers vote to continue action over pay, workload & working practices

Members of the teacher's union - NASUWT have voted 'overwhelmingly' to continue with their campaign of industrial action.

It comes following an ongoing dispute with the Department of Education, Sport and Culture over pay, workload and working practices. 

In its latest re-ballot - 82% voted in support of strike action with 92% in support of action short of strike.

Since April, members have 'withdrawn' from a range of activities which don't directly relate to teaching and learning, including attending meetings and providing cover for absent colleagues.

This action was escalated earlier this month with members no longer undertaking break duties or any marking, setting and assessment of cover work arising from any planned or unplanned staff absence.

Dr Patrick Roach, NASUWT General Secretary, said: 

“NASUWT members have reaffirmed their determination to take action to demand a better deal for all teachers in the Isle of Man. The DESC is mistaken if they think teachers are prepared to accept a substantially below-inflation pay offer while they have seen the value of their pay fall by around 30% in real terms since 2010.

We remain ready to find a resolution to this dispute through a negotiated settlement with the DESC. However, unless significant progress is forthcoming from the DESC, there is a real risk of further escalation of industrial action, including strike action.

The responsibility for disruption in schools rests with the DESC. It is within their power to deliver the fair pay and working conditions that teachers need and deserve.”