Dear Parent, Legal Guardian,

The Collective Agreement between the State and the Malta Union of Teachers (MUT), as well as the one between Church Authorities and the MUT for Education Grades employed in the State and the Church Schools Sectors expired at the end of 2022. By virtue of the 1991 Agreement between the Republic of Malta and the Holy See Church school educators have the same work conditions as those in State schools.

Negotiations have been ongoing between parties over the past months. Due to disagreement with the State on the financial package, MUT has recently registered an industrial dispute. MUT has issued directives impacting service provision in State and Church schools with effect from the 13th November 2023. Furthermore, the MUT has ordered a one-day strike on Monday, 27th November to all educators.

Whilst appreciating the challenges such actions create, may we appeal to everyone’s empathy and sensibility at efforts being made from all parties to improve the educational field in general, including betterment of conditions for education grades on whom the system relies. In case the one-day strike proceeds on Monday, 27th November 2023, Church Schools will have to be physically open to welcome employees who may decide not to strike. However, indications are that there would be a strong participation in the strike by employees as it is their right. This means, that the school will most likely have insufficient professionals available on the day to take responsibility of the educational service provision, and more importantly of the health and safety of students.

In view of this, with a strong sense of responsibility towards our students and their health and safety, kindly be informed that unless the strike is called off, you are requested not to send your children to school on Monday, 27th November 2023. All students will be excused from school attendance. We wish to also inform you that there will be no school transport on the day.

You are encouraged to continue following mass media for any developments there may be. Thank you for your sustained understanding and cooperation.

Your sincerely,

Fr Charles Mallia

Delegate for Catholic Education