Teachers’ Union Leader Defends Industrial Action Against Critics
President of the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers (A&BUT), Casroy Charles, has pushed back against critics who accuse the union of being “money hungry,” insisting that its actions are rooted in defending the rights and welfare of teachers.
In recent years, teachers have staged industrial action over issues ranging from retroactive payments to the implementation of promotion instruments. While some members of the public have voiced support, others have criticised the union’s approach.
Charles dismissed those criticisms, pointing to past disputes over school security and promotions. “Persons will always criticise teachers for standing up for their rights,” he said. “When we argued for security, people asked why schools needed it. When we pressed for promotions, they said it was just a piece of paper. And when we demand payment, they accuse us of chasing money. Our job is not to please the public — it is to ensure employers meet their obligations.”
He argued that international labour standards supported the union’s position, citing the principle of “decent work.” “The work cannot be decent if you owe me and don’t pay me,” Charles said. “The work cannot be decent if I am exposed to health hazards. If agreements call for 24-hour security or for retroactive payments after promotions, then we are right to agitate for those.”
The union leader stressed that the A&BUT will continue to act whenever members are “disenfranchised.” He added that recent negotiations on school security and promotions were progressing, and the union was “satisfied thus far” with the government’s efforts.
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N it’s not the teacher’s fault when student don’t pass these exams. Don’t they have parents too. When teacher required the work, SBA etc from these students n nothing is produced, what do they do? Send for parents n they too don’t show up. So what u expect. Better to come? Nahhhh!!!
that’s the comment!!! Time for Min of Education to implement and enforce performance assessments and key performance indicators. Pay increases bonuses to teachers who perform with results.
Everytime ABUT open their mouth, is money money money.
ABUT should hold poor performing Teachers accountable too. 19% of CSEC students this year Antigua pass 5 subjects with Maths and English.
Ah dat dem fu study too!!