Govt reaches agreement with Teachers Union

The government and the Bahamas Union of Teachers have reached an agreement following months of sometimes tense negotiations.

The agreement was reached following a meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister today between government officials and representatives of the teachers union.

In a statement posted on X, the prime minister thanked Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Chester Cooper, Bahamas Union of Teachers President Belinda Wilson and her executive team for working together to bring the agreement across the finish line.

Davis said the agreement represents a way for the government to honour the service and sacrifice of teachers through better salaries, improved benefits, support for Family Island teachers and more opportunities for professional development.

The prime minister acknowledged the important role teachers play in shaping the lives of young people, saying they encourage children, guide them through difficult moments and help prepare them for the future.

“Their work deserves our respect, and that respect must be reflected in how we support them,” Davis said.

The agreement comes after months of negotiations between the union and the government’s negotiating team, which at times were marked by tension as the two sides worked to resolve outstanding issues.

Davis said the government would continue working to ensure teachers receive the support they deserve.

“We see your work, we value your service, and we will continue working to ensure you receive the support you deserve,” the prime minister said, adding that teachers have the government’s “full support” and that his administration would “always have your back.”