Branch: Respect PNGTA

TEACHERS should res­pect the PNG Teachers Association because it has been doing a lot for them, a branch secretary says.
PNGTA highlands branch assistant secretary John Melson was res­ponding to media statements by some teachers blaming the association for being “quiet and not doing anything”.
It was in regard to teachers’ complaint about their association’s inaction over the delay in the release of air tickets to those in remote areas wanting to travel home for Christmas.
Melson defended their national union body.
“PNGTA is looking after teachers, has been vocal on their issues and is the party negotiating for teachers,” Melson said.
He said the PNGTA was doing its part in addressing teachers’ issues, including pay increases.
Melson said the highlands branch was looking into the needs of the teachers in the region. He admitted that the only setback was the failure to update its database.
He said the association had done much for teachers who should not blame it for the delay in leave fares because that was the education department’s responsibi­lity.
He said the concerns of highlands teachers were being addressed.
Melson said while they had the right to voice their concerns in the media, there were protocols to follow, such as going to the branch officials.
Teachers will soon see increases in their salaries.