Mallorca general strike: pupils over 14 can join
On Mallorca, in the Balearic Islands, pupils over 14 can join Wednesday’s general strike if they are in at least the third year of compulsory secondary school. The UGT and Comisiones Obreras (CCOO) unions have called the strike over lost purchasing power, difficulty finding housing and demands for higher pay. Teachers are affected too, but their unions disagree about taking part.
Pupils in Educación Secundaria Obligatoria (ESO), Spain’s compulsory secondary stage, must first agree to strike at a pupil assembly and tell their school. The Student Union is urging pupils and university students to set up assemblies and strike committees.
Housing is a particular concern for teachers in the Balearics, said José Luis Valero, UGT’s education spokesman. A lack of permanent posts means many have to move for work, he said, while supply teachers lack a stable income. Housing is especially difficult in tourist areas such as the islands.
The education union FSIE will not join the strike, though it says each worker has the right to decide for themselves. The National Catholic Confederation of Parents and Pupils’ Parents (CONCAPA) worries about lessons being disrupted and wants sufficient minimum services. The Spanish Confederation of Parents’ Associations (CEAPA) has decided not to take a position.
Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com