UPE notes silence from ministry over trade dispute

The Union of Professional Educators (UPE) has observed a marked silence regarding the trade dispute it raised with the Ministry of Education concerning Circular DG DES 28/2024 - the policy on the participation of educators in media appearances i

By: independent.com.mt

Nov 14 2024
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UPE notes silence from ministr

The Union notes that several organisations and educational entities, including the Faculty of Education at the University of Malta, have expressed similar concerns regarding the level of censorship imposed by such a circular.

Ritianne Borg Saliba, Director General of Educational Services (DES), "has remained unwilling to initiate a social dialogue, which is the standard protocol when a trade dispute is registered by a union," the UPE said.

"Borg Saliba and other civil servants, such as the Permanent Secretary Mr Matthew Vella, must understand the following: Malta's industrial relations model follows the European approach, which is based on cooperation and participation - a stark contrast to the current practices at the Ministry of Education."

The rights of employees (educators) and their representatives (UPE) are enshrined in law, as is the process for resolving disputes, the union said. "In addition to being an employer, the government's role in this context is that of a mediator during industrial disputes. When necessary, unions such as the UPE engage with the government on issues affecting their members, as is the case with Circular DG DES 28/2024."

"There may be a need for greater involvement from the Parliamentary Secretariat for Social Dialogue, led by the Andy Ellul, who is responsible for promoting and strengthening social dialogue in the country. His office should work to facilitate communication and cooperation between employers, workers, and the government, with the aim of fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society."

"Thus far, social dialogue remains merely theoretical, as is the case with many other initiatives. Further directives have been issued by the UPE which will be effective on Monday 18th November 2024."