National

BEMU Says Members Will Not Return To Work Until Matters Are Addressed

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – BEMU says more than 90 percent of its nearly 500 members have withdrawn their services in protest of what they describe as years of broken promises and unfair treatment.

Published

4 months ago

August 25, 2025

Delvardo Emmanuel

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The standoff between the Bahamas Educators Managerial Union and the Ministry of Education continues, disrupting the start of the new academic year.

What was supposed to be a routine first day of school turned into a standstill as scores of school administrators across the country failed to report for duty.

The union says more than 90 percent of its nearly 500 members have withdrawn their services in protest of what they describe as years of broken promises and unfair treatment.

Union leaders met with education officials on Sunday in a last-ditch effort to resolve outstanding issues, including unpaid allowances, delayed promotions, and health and safety concerns. Despite hours of discussions, the government has reportedly failed to deliver on its commitments.

Another area of contention is the reassignment process. Several administrators were issued reassignment letters to move from one island to another, but provisions for housing, airfare, or shipping personal belongings have not been made, leaving staff in a difficult position.

Union representatives have also expressed concerns about operational responsibilities, saying they should be included in discussions regarding daily administrative duties such as student ID checks and campus access.

A meeting is scheduled for today, and the union says a final decision on whether members will return to work could come as early as Tuesday.