THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE GOVERNMENT of Jamaica and the JTA has apparently failed us again; something that they have consistently done over the past 25 years. For too long, we have been chastised, ridiculed and held at ransom by an insensitive and unfeeling government which has nothing to offer but platitudes, pre-fabricated rhetoric and ingratitude. This was starkly evident in the Hon. Maxine Henry-Wilson's address to the nation on Sunday of this week.
She presented her script well with an attitude of suppressed annoyance and irritation that these rude teachers could take such drastic action after all that the government has done for us. She spoke of "significant movement" of teachers salaries and how the government "has acted reasonably". If this is "acting reasonably", I guess the definition of the word must have changed suddenly. How could we be so cruel? After all we have been given a phenomenal increase of three per cent! How could we ask for more? She tried to appeal to our hardened, calloused consciences by using terms such as "professionalism and sense of caring" and "protecting the interests of students." These are duties that teachers continue to perform on a regular basis; often beyond the call of duty. We care about our children it is the government's scant regard for education that is the greatest threat to their welfare. It is obvious that the government of this country has very little respect for us and a strong message must be sent.
The JTA should have seized the golden opportunity to state the teachers' demands before October 16, but they foolishly waited, did what was "right" and this is the result.
The government of this country is adding fuel to the flames of discontent by its condescending attitude to the plight of the teaching profession and by extension the welfare of the country's future. If the country does not invest in education, it will have to invest in more prisons and rehabilitation centres.
I can assure you this time Ms. Wilson, that "stability" will not return to the system with "minimum delay." We are prepared to carry on the struggle; even though we may never receive the benefits immediately. This is not to be taken lightly as had been done in the past. Protest action will definitely extend beyond the two days and there will be no "stability" until we have been properly addressed on the issue.
It is time that our voice be heard we control the destiny of this country; we have placed the politicians, policemen and medical technologists where they are.
"Without the spirit of protest and at times disobedience, necessary social change may not come to pass." (FD 13 A Course Manual UWI)
I am, etc.,
VIVIAN COLLINS
Viviancol2000@yahoo.com
Teacher
Happy Grove High School
Hector's River P.O.
Portland
