Strikes over pensions to close schools

THE majority of schools in Inverness, Nairn and the Black Isle are expected to close on St Andrew’s Day after members of Scotland’s largest teaching union voted for strike action over proposed changes to public sector pensions.

It will form part of a broader day of disruption on 30th November with other public sector workers, including classroom assistants, learning support auxiliaries, service point staff and road workers, also due to strike, amid ongoing cutbacks in public spending.

Although the full impact of the decision by members of the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) has yet to emerge, Highland Council’s education chairman believes most of the area’s secondary schools will close while many primary schools may also shut.

Up to 60 schools in the Inverness, Nairn and Black Isle area could be affected.

Councillor Bill Fernie said education officials will work on detailed arrangements with schools to ensure pupils and parents are informed of what is happening.

"At this time, we don’t know how many schools will be affected — it depends on how many staff will still be coming in," said Councillor Fernie, who noted the EIS vote for Scotland was 82 per cent in favour of striking.

"If that figure is reflected in the Highlands, I suspect most of our schools would have to close that day.

"That is huge disruption for everyone — not just children but for parents who have to make alternative arrangements."

But city business leaders maintain the action is not helpful in the current economic times.

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