A QUESTION OF HONOUR - THE UNION'S CAMPAIGN FOR A PAY
REVIEW
As you will be aware, the STRB has, as a result of the
Union's campaign, sought a remit from the Government to review the current
2006-2008 pay increases.
In contrast to the 2.5 per cent pay increase paid
from 1 September 2006, inflation has averaged 3.75 per cent from April 2006 to
March 2007, well in excess of the trigger mechanism review figures, and is
currently running at 4.5 per cent.
The General Secretary's recent letter to all members
has explained in detail the consequences for members' living standards and the
importance of protecting them through higher pay increases than those currently
provided for.
The STRB sought the remit from the Government on 18
April 2007 and no response has yet been received. Clearly, the Government
cannot indefinitely put off its response. If, of course, the Government accepts
the STRB's request it will be a considerable success for the Union and the next
objective will be to press the STRB to recommend higher pay increases for all
teachers.
The Government may, of course, decide not to accept
the STRB's request and to continue to impose pay increases on teachers well
below inflation. The Union's position is very clear. Should that occur the
Union will respond very strongly to any such decision by the Government.
Whilst at this stage we do not know how the Government
will respond, it is important that we prepare as effectively as possible for a
possible rejection of a pay review. Associations and divisions are urged to
take steps to build the campaign locally.
Given the pressures under which they work and the
demands on their time and energies, many teachers may not, themselves, fully
appreciate the impact on their lives of rising inflation and inadequate
increases in pay.
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