ROSEAU, Dominica – The Dominica State College (DSC) says it notes ”with concern” the industrial action taken by faculty and administrative staff, earlier this week on several issues including salary negotiations.
Dominica State CollegeThe primary concern highlighted by the staff centers on salary negotiations for the period of 2023 to 2026.
But in a statement, the DSC board of governors said on the issue of salary negotiations, the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU) had been “duly informed” of the ongoing job reclassification exercise it has initiated in response to staff feedback.
“This exercise requires input from the DPSU to ensure fair and effective implementation. The Board cannot act unilaterally on such a critical matter, and it is imperative that discissions continue in the collaborative and constructive spirit thus far.
“However, it is important to note that DSC staff salaries are generally aligned with those of secondary school teachers,” the DSC board said.
The DSC board said that the government has invested more than four million EC dollars (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents) in the refurbishment of the college and that significant progress had been made over the past 12 months under the project being carred out in phases.
It said the government remains committed to completing the project and is now awaiting cost estimates for the other aspects of the school refurbishment prgramme.
“The DSC strongly refutes claims of unsanitary washroom conditions or the necessity for faculty to share facilities with students,” the statement said, adding that there are designed facilities for lecturers.
“It is regrettable that such misleading statements were made, as they do not accurately reflect the current conditions,” the DSC board said, adding that it taes the “concerns of faculty and staff seriously and remain open to further discussions to resolve outstanding issues.
“The relationship with the DPSU has been professional and respectful, and we reaffirm our commitment to working closely with all stakeholders to foster a fair and positive working environment”.
