The Malta Union of Teachers has formally asked for insurance cover for teachers while at school, following a series of high-profile incidents.   

In a brief statement on Thursday afternoon, the MUT said that over the years it had often proposed similar schemes for its members but the government had always dismissed them, saying it did not provide insurance for its workforce.  

"In view of recent developments, the MUT has written to the Minister for Education and Employment and has formally requested that educators are provided with insurance during their duties," the teachers' union said in its statement, adding that more information will be provided. 

On Monday, Home Affairs Minister Michael Farrugia announced in a press conference that members of the disciplined forces would be eligible for compensation of up to €180,000 in case of death or injury while on duty, under a new occupational accident insurance scheme. 

According to Finance Minister Edward Scicluna, the claims that will be filed under the scheme will be handled by a specialised force. 

Teachers’ concerns about their safety again made headlines in recent weeks after two men were arraigned in connection with an incident at the Pembroke secondary school after a young student had to be hospitalised following an alleged assault by another student.

Read: Boy in hospital with head injuries after attack at Pembroke secondary school

A day later, a student and a school official were involved in a fight at St Ignatius College secondary school in Qormi. 

According to the union, there were also a number of cases that were reported to the police as well as others which were dismissed by the schools before these even reached the authorities.

Earlier this month, the Times of Malta had asked whether the union was considering requesting “danger money”, additional pay for those working in dangerous situations, MUT president Marco Bonnici said priority should be on ensuring security and safety of schools that would benefit both educators and students and prevent cases and situations “which no amount of money can justify”.