B.U.T. Sounds Off On Health and Safety Concerns at C.V. Bethel High

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Bahamas Union of Teachers President Belinda Wilson says the move came after a meeting with the school principal, but no resolution to the issue was reached.

Belinda Wilson – President, Bahamas Union of Teachers
“So they invoked their right not to work in an unhealthy and unsafe environment.”

These images of bathrooms and other areas coming into our newsroom from the school allegedly show mold in the ceiling, among other concerns.

Belinda Wilson – President, Bahamas Union of Teachers
“Teachers at C.V. Bethel Senior High School gave the principal a list of grievances and concerns related to health and safety, hot classrooms, overcrowded classrooms, restrooms that are inoperable for the boys and girls, termite infestations, and also an odor that emanates from decayed rodents.”

Wilson says teachers will not be intimidated and will stand for their rights.

Ministry of Education responds to teachers’ concerns

We put the issue to Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin, who said contractors have been dispatched to review, assess, and address those concerns. She said repairs were made to the school during the summer break, including the refurbishment of several science labs on campus. She also said plans are underway to tackle the current issues.

Glenys Hanna-Martin – Minister of Education
“Scopes are usually a collaboration between the school, Ministry of Works, and Ministry of Education, and it seems these fundamental issues were not included. As a consequence, and to avoid future gaps, the Ministry will undertake periodic inspections to ensure the state of repair.”

Hanna-Martin says there needs to be a greater level of accountability in respecting school property and the expenditure of public funds and renewed the commitment to ensuring teachers and students are in exceptional conditions.

Other union concerns

But this isn’t the only issue plaguing the union at this time. Wilson is calling on officials to address issues on Ragged Island.

The B.U.T. president pointed out that there is no furniture for the teacher’s residence and questioned why school furniture was placed at the Anglican Church there. While she says the union is pleased with the new school on Ragged Island, she is asking for a quick resolution to these issues.

In response, Hanna-Martin said the goal is to get students back to face-to-face learning.

Glenys Hanna-Martin – Minister of Education
“The Anglican Diocese has agreed to the use of its church to allow children to begin to normalize and orientate into face-to-face instruction and socialization. The furniture for the teacher’s cottage has been delivered to the mailboat, but in the meantime, temporary accommodations at a guesthouse have been arranged until the vessel reaches Ragged Island.”