NSW teachers went on strike late last year and have resolved to strike again next weekCredit:Louise Kennerley
It will be the second strike in less than six months as part of the union’s campaign for a 5 to 7.5 per cent pay rise. The government’s wage cap limits public sector wage increases to 2.5 per cent. Arbitration is due to begin in the Industrial Relations Commission on May 9.
Mitchell accused the “union and its group of 200 executives” of choosing themselves over the profession and students.
“It is telling that instead of using evidence to argue their position in the IRC they use students,parents and teachers as blackmail,” she said. “The tactics and threatening approach from this union and their leadership are incredibly disappointing after two years of home learning when respect for the profession has been at an all-time high.
“The government has already provided a 2.5 per cent increase for teachers this year,the union is now asking for more than nurses and other frontline workers who have all worked tirelessly during the pandemic.”
Teachers went on strike for a day last December,but suspended industrial action for term 1 amid teacher shortages driven by COVID-19 isolation rules and vaccination mandates that added to pre-existing shortages in many geographical areas and subjects.
NSW Teachers Federation president Angelo Gavrielatos,said it had been at least a decade since members had been authorised to walk out on visiting MPs.