Teacher vote in support of industrial action

Wed, 06 Apr 2022

NASUWT members in the Isle of Man have voted overwhelmingly in support of industrial action in a dispute over pay, workload and working practices.

84% of ballot papers returned voted in support of strike action, with 94% in support of action short of strike action, based on a two-thirds turnout. 

In the last 12 months alone, 88% of Manx teachers have reported an increase in their workload. But since 2010, teachers have witnessed the value of their pay fall by almost 30%, against rising inflation.

Dr Patrick Roach, NASUWT General Secretary, said: “NASUWT members are unequivocal and united in their demand for a better deal for teachers in the Isle of Man.

“The Government’s inadequate pay offer has ignited deep anger across the teaching profession and has been rejected comprehensively by NASUWT members. 

“A substantially below-inflation pay offer has been a kick in the stomach to teachers who have continued to work tirelessly whilst the value of their pay has fallen dramatically over the last decade.”

“Today’s vote must be a wake-up call to the Government which has failed to deliver the fair pay and working conditions that teachers need and deserve. 

“If the Isle of Man Government continues to ignore the serious concerns of teachers, NASUWT members are clear that they are prepared to take action to secure a better deal for teachers.”

 

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