GOVERNMENT SEES ‘MEASURED PROGRESS’
IN B.U.T. NEGOTIATIONS
 
The Negotiating Committee of the Government today, Tuesday 4th April, 2006 met with representatives of The Bahamas Union of Teachers and presented the Government’s position.  (See attached document)

As a result of today’s meeting, measured progress has been achieved toward the Government’s goal of speedily resolving any outstanding issues with the B.U.T.  Regrettably, it will no longer be possible for teachers to receive their monies by Easter.

The Negotiating Committee also regrets to report that despite repeated requests, the B.U.T. has refused to withdraw its declared ‘work-to-rule’, notwithstanding that negotiations are ongoing.

As a result of the Government’s proposals presented in today’s meeting, the two sides have agreed the following:

• The Union has tentatively agreed to enter into discussions on salaries at a meeting on Thursday 13th April 2006;
• The Government will indicate to the B.U. T. all non-salary clauses which the Government is prepared to negotiate as part of any agreement; and
• The Government will arrange a briefing for the B.U.T. on the state of the economy by the Ministry of Finance on Thursday 6th April 2006.

The Government remains hopeful that the B.U.T. and its members will allow the remainder of the negotiating process to continue without further disruption and negative effects on our children, especially at this time of intense preparation for important academic examinations.