JAMAICA-Teachers’ Association raises concern over school closures and mergers.

KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – The Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) says it is taking steps to protect the employment status of teachers affected by school closures, mergers and consolidations since the start of the new academic year.

JTA President La Sonja Harrison says the Association has received reports that some teachers are facing significant changes to their employment circumstances and professional status as a result of the restructuring.

She says any move that could negatively affect teachers’ employment rights, tenure, pay or conditions of service requires urgent attention, adding that such action could be viewed as union-busting.

The JTA has written to the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information seeking details on the schools affected, the arrangements being put in place and the implications for teachers.

Affected members are being urged to contact the Association immediately and to seek guidance before signing or accepting any document that could alter their employment status or conditions of service.

The JTA has also raised concern that the closures, mergers and consolidations are being carried out without consultation with the union.

It says the Association, as the representative body for teachers, should be included in the process.