Parents, students, and unions (FCPE 06, UNEF, UNSA education, CGT éduc’action, SGEN-CFDT, FSU) gathered on Wednesday in front of Christian Estrosi’s UMP office to voice their opposition to the government’s budget decisions. These decisions, combined with cuts since 2003, will significantly reduce the resources available to the public education service. Approximately 80 union representatives met on Boulevard Montel in Nice. A delegation was received to express their grievances. They are challenging the government’s decisions.
The unions state, “This is a short-sighted policy, regressive in its choices and dangerous for the future, for which students, young people, especially those most in need, as well as staff, will pay the price: deteriorating teaching and working conditions, reduced educational offerings, increased precariousness…”
According to SE-UNSA and its general secretary Christian Bernard, “The 2006 school year started under a dark cloud. Far from the ‘great start’ mentioned by the Minister of National Education, the reality of schooling conditions is marked by difficulties and tensions.”
SE-UNSA emphasizes the lack of staff: “Subject to rationing, primary schools only have an additional 750 jobs to accommodate nearly 40,000 more children, which means one job for every 53 students. The schooling of 2-year-olds, resources allocated to teacher continuing education, and specialized networks are again diminished.”
The gathering proceeded calmly. For many, waving flags and wearing stickers over their hearts, it was an opportunity to discuss the school year, not just the problems. A national day of action will take place on September 28.
