Lithuanian Education Workers’ Union Announces Strike Amidst Unresolved Issues

Lithuanian Education Workers’ Union Announces Strike Amidst Unresolved Issues

Strike Announcement by Education Union

The Lithuanian Education Workers’ Union (LŠDPS) has announced plans to initiate a strike in schools and other educational institutions from September 29. The decision follows a warning strike that took place last Friday, during which teachers countrywide refrained from teaching for two periods. The union has decided to take this drastic step due to unresolved issues within the education sector, which they believe are being obscured or misrepresented by facts and figures.

Reasons for the Strike

In the union’s perspective, the education sector is suffering from a lack of proper leadership from the Education, Science and Sport Ministry and its subordinate institutions. The union has communicated about the impending strike to each school, specifying which staff members will participate. The LŠDPS, a teachers’ trade union, had organized a warning strike last Friday and is scheduled to hold the next round of discussions with the Education Ministry on Tuesday.

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Demands of the Union

The union’s demands include a 20% increase in teachers’ salaries starting from September, another 30% rise from January, and a reduction in class sizes. Andrius Navickas, the LŠDPS leader, stated that the union is open to continuing discussions until the planned strike day, and the strike could be stopped if an agreement is reached beforehand.

Government’s Response

Contrary to the union’s demands, Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė has reassured that teachers’ salaries will be raised to 130% of Lithuania’s average wage next year. This raise is as per the agreement of the political parties and will be implemented in two stages, in January and September. However, she also made it clear that some of the union’s demands are impossible to fulfill.

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Impasse in Negotiations

The teachers’ union in Lithuania is demanding better pay and improved working conditions and is willing to strike to achieve them. The government, while agreeing to some pay increases, has stated that it cannot meet all the union’s demands. The situation remains unresolved, with further negotiations expected.

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Impact on Education

The ongoing dispute and potential strike pose a significant threat to the country’s education system. The teachers’ dissatisfaction with their working conditions and compensation could result in a prolonged disruption of learning for students. It is crucial that both parties find a resolution that addresses the concerns of the teachers while ensuring the continuity and quality of education for students.