T&T: Efforts underway to ensure teachers receive backpay by Christmas

Trinidad’s Education Minister Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly has affirmed that all necessary actions are being taken to ensure that teachers receive their long-awaited backpay before Christmas.

 She provided insight into the ongoing efforts during a recent press conference held at the Ministry of Education’s headquarters on St. Vincent Street, Port-of-Spain.

Permanent Secretary Jacqueline Charles at the Helm

Dr. Gadsby-Dolly revealed that Jacqueline Charles, the newly appointed Permanent Secretary in the Education Ministry, is diligently working alongside officials from the Ministry of Finance to expedite the disbursement of teachers’ backpay. 

The Education Minister emphasized that Charles, despite being relatively new to her role, is actively overseeing the process to have everything in order by the holiday season.

Government’s target: End of calendar 2023

While addressing the media, Dr. Gadsby-Dolly reiterated that the government’s overarching goal is to complete the backpay disbursement by the end of the calendar year 2023. 

This commitment reflects the administration’s unwavering dedication to resolving the issue promptly.

Confidence in Charles’ capabilities

Expressing her confidence in Permanent Secretary Charles, Dr. Gadsby-Dolly praised her for hitting the ground running in her role. 

The Education Minister also highlighted the measures implemented to support ministry staff during this critical period.

Childcare assistance for dedicated staff

To accommodate ministry staff who may be required to work extended hours during the backpay processing, the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Division has established a nursery within the ministry premises. 

This initiative ensures that employees with young children can fulfill their responsibilities comfortably.