Better salary packages for school supervisors

THE EDITOR: I am writing to you for your publication of my letter, seeking to highlight the plight of school supervisors present and immediate past. This matter has been aired before and nothing has been done to rectify the situation. All pleas have fallen on deaf ears including the Minister of Education and the Prime Minister, who is the Minister of Finance. Since two negotiations ago principals have been receiving a bigger salary than their seniors, school supervisors (1.11:111).

An allowance was given so as to level the playing field, but that did not do what was intended. There still exists a steep slope, with the supervisors at the lower end. Cabinet in 1999 agreed that the allowance be made pensionable, so that the retired supervisors would receive a better pension and gratuity. Up to the time of my writing that money has not been paid. Teachers 1 received a bigger gratuity and are receiving a bigger pension than retired supervisors 1 and 11. Similarly supervisors 111 against principals secondary. Some acting supervisors are strongly contemplating reverting to their substantive jobs. Whatever actions embarked upon by them and their predicament must be applauded. The delinking process is another point in contention. The UNC had drafted the necessary legislation for the delinking process. My information is that it takes a dimple majority to have the act passed in parliament.

The general election of 2000 came and it was put on the back burner. Apparently it has been burnt to ashes due to the PSA’s reluctance to support the process. The pussy-footing of the Minister of Education is also a factor in the equation. I am calling on the Minister of Education and the Prime Minister, who is also the Minister of Finance to do all within their power to have the situation rectified or be prepared to allow the education system to continue on its downward slide.

HANSLEY LUSHINGTON
Couva