The Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers (ABUT) and the government have inked a collective bargaining agreement, heralding a 14 per cent salary boost for educators.
The agreement, spanning the years 2018 to 2024, delineates clear expectations regarding various facets of the teaching profession, ranging from working conditions to compensation.
A long-awaited adjustment
The signed accord not only addresses salary increments but also delves into crucial aspects such as benefits, working conditions, and the rights of both teachers and the union in navigating contractual disagreements.
Of notable importance is the provision stipulating that the salary hike will be retroactive, dating back to 2018.
The initial installment, comprising five percent, was disbursed in 2018, while the remaining nine percent came into effect as of January this year.
A decade in the making
This development marks the first comprehensive collective bargaining agreement between the two parties since November 2008.
Casroy Charles, President of the Union, expressed heartfelt appreciation to all stakeholders involved in reaching this pivotal juncture.
He particularly commended the efforts of the past executive members for laying the groundwork, lauded Dr. Colin Greene for his adept negotiation skills, and acknowledged the unwavering support of the membership.
Reclassification of salaries
In tandem with the recent salary adjustment, negotiations are nearing fruition regarding the long-standing request for the reclassification of salaries.
This impending reclassification holds promise for additional increments tailored to individual job categories, with a retroactive effect from January.
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