Manual is divergent from the current agreement. 

The Secretariat for Catholic Education has recently come under scrutiny after issuing a human resources manual in September that goes against the current agreement regulating educators. This document has been kept secret and has only come to light due to concerned members notifying the Union about irregularities.

Upon reviewing the document, the Union of Professional Educators (UPE) has found several points that are in direct contradiction to the current agreement, particularly in regards to disciplinary procedures. This has caused disappointment and frustration among educators who feel that the manual has been created without proper consultation.

“The Manual goes against the current agreement regulating educators.” 

One of the main concerns is regarding sick leave and special leave. According to the manual, regular medical visits such as check-ups and blood tests must be taken from the limited hours of special leave. This means that educators may not be able to use this leave to attend to important hospital appointments, as it is at the discretion of the head of school to grant special leave.

This arbitrary decision by the Church authorities is causing inconvenience for educators who may have to wait for months to secure a hospital appointment, only to be denied the leave by their head of school. It is a disappointing move by the Catholic Church.

“The manual makes it difficult for educators to avail themselves of medical appointments.” 

Moreover, there is also a legal aspect to consider. The UPE is questioning whether the Church authorities have the right to implement new regulations on already agreed terms, specifically regarding disciplinary proceedings. It is unclear whether the Church will adhere to the 2018 collective agreement signed by the Secretariat for Catholic Education and the MUT or follow the Church School Sector Human Resources Manual of Procedures.

The UPE has formally requested a meeting to address these concerns and clarify the situation. It is important that the Church and the Union work together to come to a resolution that is fair to all parties involved.

The UPE encourages educators to join the Union and seek help by visiting ww.upe.mt, and can also reach out to the UPE through info@upe.mt or 99946582 / 21221252. 

Together, we can stand up for our rights as educators.