Following two extensive branch meetings and further consultation with our members, we wish to convey the following.
The Unite ELT branch states that:
Schools must communicate clearly and immediately with teachers in writing about their employment situation and pay. Teachers must also be given weekly updates in writing on this matter. Teachers must not be forced to take their holidays to cover the closure period.
Teachers are under no obligation to teach online. However, if they choose to do so, all training, preparation and correction time for online teaching must be paid at the normal contracted rate.
All necessary equipment and support for teaching must be provided by the schools. Class duration and size must be reduced as appropriate for online teaching. Employees must continue to be paid at their average weekly wage, even if online teaching is not available or they are unable to do it.
Rent and mortgage payments must be waived for the duration of the crisis and there must be a guarantee of no evictions. There should be no accrued debt as a result of this waiver.
Employers must negotiate with the union immediately in order to achieve the best outcomes for workers, students, public health and their businesses.
We also wish to extend our deepest solidarity to all other branches and workers. Please get in touch if you require our help.
Unite has also called for the establishment of an Emergency Forum.
Unite ELT 