Before the beginning of the teachers’ strike – Šimonytė’s message: I hope that we will still be able to reach an agreement

“I believe that the teachers themselves, who are going to strike, understand that the child’s interests are primary. Therefore, I have no doubts and hope that today, because of this, Ministry of Education, Science and Sports will be able to agree on the salary increase, which The government planned in the next year’s budget, after negotiations with trade unions.

I am very sorry that some trade unions partially refused to negotiate. Because they raised demands that were known to be unfulfillable”, said the Head of the Government.

Delphi reminds that after LŠDPS withdrew from the negotiations, they continue to be held with four trade unions – the Lithuanian Education and Science Trade Union, the Education and Science Trade Union “Solidarumas”, the Association of Lithuanian Higher Education Trade Unions, the Lithuanian Trade Union “Sandrauga”.

I. Šimonytė said that it was agreed on which way to reach “130 percent of the average salary in September”.

“And the Government, as I have said many times, will implement that and it will be included in the next year’s budget. This is a free country, everyone has the right to express their opinion, even to make demands that cannot be practically implemented. But it seems to me that those who rationally look at their demands and understand that the interests of children are the main ones, the Government does not generate money and any additional money means even more debt, or a reduction of expenses somewhere else.

I know there’s someone out there getting ready to call something to the board. But there is no need for anyone to go to the blackboard”, assured Prime Minister I. Šimonytė.

During her speech, she spoke about the simulation of budget formation in the State Knowledge Center – if funding for one is increased, the other loses it.

“Such a discussion does not lead anywhere. It seems to me that the proposal that is being discussed with some of the trade unions is a good proposal. I will be very happy if you manage to capture it today. And in that case, such an agreement will be reflected in next year’s budget,” Prime Minister I. Šimonytė said in the Seimas on Thursday.

When asked what will happen if the agreement is not reached on Thursday, the Prime Minister refused to speculate.

“We will look at it then,” the Head of the Government I. Šimonytė said in the Seimas on Thursday.

Delphi reminds that on Friday the striking teachers and their supporting students will march from their educational institutions to the Government House.

According to the chairman of the education workers’ union A. Navickas, various discussions will be organized in Vincos Kudirka Square, as well as classes will be held to support the pedagogues for the students who have come.

According to the permit issued by the Vilnius City Municipality, rallies near the Government House will be able to take place every day from September 29. until October 28, up to 2,000 people will be able to participate in them.