Teaching union members vote 'overwhelmingly' for action over pay dispute

Two per cent offer a 'kick to the stomach' says NASUWT

A teaching union says its members have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action in a dispute over pay, workload and working practices on the Isle of Man.

NASUWT began balloted members last month following a two per cent offer from a government- with 84% of respondents voting in support of strike action, with 94% in support of action short of strike.

The union, which represents around 600 teachers on the Island, says that's based on a two-thirds turn out.

It claims 88% of Manx teachers have reported an increase in their workload in the last year, and have witnessed the value of their pay fall by almost 30%, against rising inflation, since 2010.

NASUWT General Secretary, Dr Patrick Roach, says: '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.'

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture has been contacted for comment.