The Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers (ABUT) has announced that its members will continue their industrial action for the third consecutive day today Friday

The union president, Casroy Charles Jnr., has stated that the industrial action will involve a sit-in, with teachers reporting for work but not actively engaging in teaching. Charles emphasized that this action should not be considered a strike.

The union’s demands stem from outstanding payments owed to teachers as a result of a re-classification exercise, which led to approximately 300 teachers being placed in different categories necessitating increased salaries.

Sharon Kelsick, ABUT’s General Secretary, has noted that the industrial action has significantly impacted school operations, with only principals and assistant principals actively maintaining the functioning of the school plants in most cases.

Kelsick expressed disappointment at the situation, emphasizing the effects of the industrial action on the education system, resulting in students not receiving their required instruction.

Clare Browne, the Director of Education, shared that the ministry is actively working to resolve the matter and encourage teachers to effectively engage with their students.

Browne revealed that out of the 300 teachers who were supposed to receive outstanding payments, 297 have already been paid, with only three payments remaining unresolved. However, Browne raised concerns about one payment, stating that although the treasury has claimed to have made the payment, the teacher has denied receiving it.

The ongoing industrial action has disrupted the academic year, depriving students of a full week of classes and posing significant challenges for the education system.