Take bull by the horns, Mr Garcia

It is ironic that the Minister of Education Anthony Garcia should remark in Parliament that “it was not necessary at all for these schools to be closed and we wonder why these schools were closed.” This minister was once the president of the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers Association (TTUTA), the teachers’ union which supported its members whenever they decided to take industrial action, whether rational or not.

Since the minister was once head of the union, some teachers have been looking for the slightest reason to walk out of school, stay away from classes or take industrial action.

The reasons may be as simple as schools having mosquitoes, rats, stray dogs or cats or even dust in the air.

So where in this country can one go and be free of these elements? Some individuals are simply over-exaggerating ordinary conditions. However, it is a fact that the majority of teachers in the country are indeed hard working and conscientious.

Today, some teachers are holding fast to the role of TTUTA representative just to get away from their real responsibilities and at the same time are encouraging other teachers to do the same.

Perhaps the focus of the union is different but there are employees who are taking advantage of the situation. This is why proper screening of wannabee TTUTA reps is necessary and also training in being good role models is a must.

TTUTA finds itself in a very funny position in supporting these reps who over a period of time have gained the support of the membership.

The union needs to change this approach and the Minister of Education has the opportunity to turn around an already bad situation.

It is hoped he will take the bull by the horns.

WKS HOSEIN Chaguanas