Question reference: S6W-14598
- Asked by: Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 7 February 2023
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Current status: Answered by Shirley-Anne Somerville on 28 February 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether its industrial relations with teaching unions will take account of data published by the Office of National Statistics on 27 January 2023, which found that 31% of working adults with children in school would have to work fewer hours due to school closures caused by industrial action, and 28% would not be able to work.
Answer
This Government is clear that industrial action in our schools is in no one’s interest, least of all for pupils, parents and carers who have already faced significant disruption over the past three years.
As indicated by the Office of National Statistics, it is concerning that this industrial action is putting parents and carers are at further financial loss.
We are absolutely committed to reaching teachers’ pay deal and are working closely with the teaching unions and local government partners to reach a resolution as soon as possible. We also continue to urge the teaching unions to suspend industrial action while these talks are ongoing.