Government, MUT sign agreement

The Malta Union of Teachers and the government signed a new collective agreement for state school teachers and educators this morning.

The agreement builds on that of July 2007 and includes an increase in allowances over the next two years.

MUT president John Bencini and Education Minister Dolores Cristina agreed that the “mature” new collective agreement was not about the allowances but focused on improving the education system.

“If I had to sum up what the agreement is all about it would be about the better management of schools and colleges and offering a better service to students and educators,” Mr Bencini said.

The agreement included the introduction of reduced hours for teachers and the introduction of bridging that would allow a teacher, who left the job for a few years, to return to work under the same grade and salary.

In light of the ongoing education reforms, and the added responsibility on teachers and teaching staff, allowances would be increased between an average of 40 and 76 per cent. Roles of higher responsibility would see an allowance increase of up to 180 per cent, Mr Bencini said.

Ms Cristina added that, currently, allowances cost the government about €2.6 million that would increase by about €2 million over the next two years. Allowances would be given according to the level of responsibility and work experience.

The collective agreement also included the introduction of a health and safety representative in colleges; improving the induction and mentoring for new teachers; the better recognition of e-learning as a pedagogical took; and focusing on the professional development of teachers.

Mr Bencini and Ms Cristina agreed that the negotiations were “mature”

although there were some challenging moments. However, Mr Bencini said, the government had clearly been willing to reach an agreement.