The Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers' Association (TTUTA) will picket the Ministry of Education (MOE) on Alexandra Street, St. Clair at 10:00 a.m. on Monday April 19th, 2004. While there, the TTUTA delegation will inquire about outstanding arrears of increments owing to teachers for the period 1987 to 1995.

This action comes in response to the MOE's continued failure to pay outstanding arrears of increments, for the period 1987-1995 to all the eligible teachers. Payments are still outstanding to approximately 1000 of an estimated 10,500 eligible teachers. The MOE had promised to pay teachers their arrears by September 30th, 2003. To date, several of these 1000 teachers have not even received their liability statements. MOE officials have once again demonstrated their inefficiency, disrespect and contempt for the welfare of teachers.

The struggle to obtain these arrears of increment has been long and very trying. Attempts by our Association to have the matters resolved have only met with partial success. Teachers who have not been paid are frustrated at this denial of their just due as per agreement.

TTUTA is, however, determined to ensure that ALL teachers who are eligible for arrears receive their just due.

The theme of the action is "Solidarity With My Comrade". Participants in Monday's activity will include members of TTUTA's Conference of Delegates and General Council, together with the affected teachers. All those participating in this activity are asked to wear their TTUTA T-shirts or red T- shirts.

TTUTA calls on the MOE to act responsibly and ensure that the necessary payments are made, thereby honouring its agreement.

TTUTA will continue to take appropriate action on behalf of those teachers, who have so far been denied their arrears, until this matter is settled.

TTUTA demands that the MOE settle outstanding payments to teachers.

April 16, 2004