JTA and Ministry must be Allies – Thwaites

Minister of Education, Hon. Rev. Ronald Thwaites, has underscored the need for a good working relationship between the Ministry of Education and the Jamaica Teachers Association (JTA) for the benefit of the education sector and the nation.

Addressing Tuesday April 10 opening of the JTA Education Conference 2012, which is being held at the Rose Hall Resort and Spa in St. James, Minister Thwaites, said that while there may be differences in opinion on certain matters, the relationship between the parties must be one of partnership.

“There are some who seem to believe that there is an inherent conflict to be identified and magnified, between the teachers and the government… I wish to state it clearly that the interest of the Ministry of Education and the members of the Jamaica Teachers Association must be that of allies not adversaries,” he stated.

He noted that there is a transformation of the education system now taking place, which is being carried out in the interest of the nation’s children and also to benefit all participants in the system, inclusive of teachers, administrators and government.

Minister Thwaites pointed out that it has been his policy, since taking office, to share developments in the sector with the JTA, citing an April 5 meeting with representatives to discuss proposed legislation for the establishment of the Jamaica Teaching Council.

He said that the Bill is in draft stage, and there is need to refine certain terms and conditions, and also have consensus on some matters.