Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche said today he was disappointed the secondary school teachers’ union (PPTA) had rejected a pay offer which was fair to teachers and fiscally responsible.
Sir Brian said the offer was carefully crafted to recognise the contribution of teachers while ensuring affordability for taxpayers.
“The offer on the table represented a 3% increase over three years, on top of annual pay progression of between 4.5% and 7.5%,” said Sir Brian.
“For many secondary teachers, this equates to pay increases between $3,100 and $8,000 a year, with regular annual progression included. Over three years the offer provides increases of between $1,850 to $3,123, or between $7,275 and $15,250 with annual pay progression.
“The economic environment and the Government’s fiscal position are very difficult. Every additional dollar spent must be weighed against what is sustainable and fair to all New Zealanders.
“The union has not said why it has rejected the offer and has not even put it to its members.
“I urge the union to reconsider what I believe is a fair offer, on top of the pay advances secondary teachers have received over the last three years.
“I am open to continued dialogue and am committed to reaching a settlement that supports teachers, students, and our public school system.”
