Independent Education Union warns Lutheran system proposed cuts could threaten quality of schooling
Lower wages, delayed pay rises and workload changes are among the proposed cuts facing Queensland Lutheran teachers which the Union says will threaten the quality of education students will receive.
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THE education of 18,000 students in 26 schools is at risk because of cuts which threaten teachers job security and workload, according to the independent teachers’ union.
The Independent Education Union (IEU) called on Lutheran Education Queensland to abandon its plans for the new employer agreement in order to protect the “quality education in Lutheran schools”.
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The proposed cuts by Lutheran Education Queensland would mean lower wages for some teachers, delayed pay rises, the removal of workload safety nets, and threaten job security and procedural fairness in employment, Independent Education Union‘s QLD and NT branch secretary Terry Burke said.
“LEQ claims to ‘offer an inspired, Christian educational experience that sets our students apart’ – and its plan for employees will certainly set it apart as an employer for all the wrong reasons,” Mr Burke said.
“LEQ’s planned cuts will result in all other major education employers – state, Catholic and Anglican – offering far superior working conditions.
“Any cut to working conditions, is a cut to the foundation of quality education in these schools.”
However, Lutheran Education Queensland hit back at the claims saying it was providing a “balanced package” reflecting the shared interests of both employees and employers.
LEQ executive director Dennis Mulherin said negotiations were ongoing, with a range of proposed increases including a 2.5 per cent salary over the life of the new Enterprise Agreement.
“These are not cuts or constraints to working conditions, and there is no threat to job security or procedural fairness.”
“These increases and improvements respond to employee feedback over recent years about areas needing reform, and support the introduction of new career path opportunities, recognition of teaching expertise, and additional workplace flexibility.”
Mr Burke said the cuts and constraints to workload were at odds with the teachings and values of the Lutheran Church.
“Instead of valuing and rewarding staff for keeping their schools operational throughout the pandemic, LEQ has shown disregard for them.”