KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) says it is seeking information and clarification regarding schools being closed, merged and consolidated across the education system, action which it says is occurring without consultation with the union.

In a statement on Thursday, the JTA expressed concern about the lack of consultation despite the direct implications for the employment, professional status and conditions of service of its members.

“Information reaching the association indicates that some affected members are experiencing significant changes to their employment circumstances and professional status as a consequence of these arrangements,” it noted.

Highlighting that it has written to the Ministry of Education, the JTA said it views any action that may adversely affect the employment rights, tenure, status, remuneration or conditions of service of its members as requiring urgent attention.

It is calling on members to contact the Jamaica Teachers’ Association immediately if they:

—     Are employed at a school that has been closed, merged or consolidated;

—     Have been advised that his or her school is being considered for closure, merger or consolidation;

—     Have been transferred, redeployed or otherwise affected as a consequence of such action;

—     Have received a Form 503 or other documentation affecting his or her appointment or employment status;

—     Have experienced or been advised of a change in post, rank, tenure, remuneration or conditions of service; or

—     Are uncertain about his or her employment status because of a proposed or implemented school closure, merger or consolidation.

Members are also being encouraged to seek guidance from the association before signing or accepting any document that may alter their employment status or conditions of service.

The JTA maintained that it will continue to engage the ministry and take the necessary steps to protect the employment rights and legitimate interests of affected members.