Shire teachers on strike tomorrow, state schools still open
FNQ education
Douglas Shire schools will have to find alternative arrangements for some children tomorrow with teachers going on strike across the state for 24 hours.
Education Department officials said today state schools would be remaining open despite the move.
The Queensland Teachers Union last week announced the action, saying the State Government has “refused to enter dialogue” in relation to an ongoing pay dispute.
The week before QTU members rallied before and after school, calling on the Government to “reopen communications” and “deliver a salary and conditions package that our members see value in”.
QTU president Cresta Richardson said she was disappointed the Government had chosen to “ignore the union”.
The deals offered have been roundly and soundly rejected and the serious issues facing state education ignored,” Ms Richardson said.
“Members don’t want to strike, but our community deserves enough teachers in its schools, and our students deserve safe classrooms and the resources they need to learn.”
Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek said the QTU members had voted against a “historic deal” put forward by the union and the Education Department through the conciliation process.
“While this is disappointing, I respect the process and will continue to engage with Queensland teachers,” he said after negotiations broke down.
“This deal would have seen every teacher in a classroom paid over $100,000 by the end of the agreement and, while it now falls to the QTU to explain why this deal was not accepted, the Government will now start progressing to arbitration within the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission.”
The Department stated today state schools would be remaining open tomorrow.
“Schools are working closely with the Department to minimise disruption and ensure no student is disadvantaged and will communicate with students and families directly about any changes to routine or assessment arrangements.
“We know this is a critical time, especially for students completing their studies.
“Every effort is being made to support learning, safety, and wellbeing across all school communities.”
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