'Teachers tired of waiting'

Source: The Fiji Times
Author: Sainimili Magimagi

Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) says it is still waiting for Government assurance on their demand for a 30 per cent pay increase, says general secretary Paula Manumanunitoga.

Speaking to this newspaper yesterday, he said teachers were tired of waiting for government's response.

"Last year we were told no, and this year we will try again," said Mr Manumanunitoga.

"These teachers are tired of waiting; they are thinking of moving overseas for better opportunities.

"We don't really want to go on strike, but the Government needs to listen to us.

"We are asking either the Minister of Finance or the Minister for Labour to at least publicly reassure us that they will consider it."

Mr Manumanunitoga said the Fijian Teachers Union and FTA will meet later today to determine the national strike or protest action.

He said due process would be followed, which includes meeting with members all over the country to seek their opinion on the matter.

"A secret ballot will be conducted for all members' participation so that we can be able to provide evidence to the Ministry of Labour that we have a unanimous decision to go on strike," he said.

"It will take quite some time because we will have to go all over the country to seek the members opinions.

"Once they give us a mandate, then we will be able to effectuate the strike or protest."