Education Minister Accuses Teachers’ Union of Intimidation Ahead of Strike

Education Minister Erica Stanford has publicly accused New Zealand’s largest education union, the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI), of intimidating its members into silence ahead of a significant public sector strike. Scheduled for today, this strike is expected to see over 100,000 healthcare and education workers walk off their jobs, demanding improved pay and working conditions.

In an interview with Herald NOW’s Ryan Bridge, Stanford expressed concerns that the NZEI has shown an unwillingness to engage in negotiations, suggesting it has not acted in good faith leading up to the strike. She indicated that many members of the union might feel compelled to remain silent due to fears of potential repercussions for opposing the union’s stance.

“I can tell you that the NZEI have been bullying their members and continue to do so,” Stanford stated. “That’s why people don’t speak out. I’ve heard from principals and teachers who tell me that this is indeed the case.”

Union’s Political Maneuvering Questioned

Stanford criticized the NZEI’s recent open letter, which urged her to halt proposed curriculum reforms, describing it as “very political” and coming at an “unusual” time. She emphasized that the ministry has been working on these reforms for the past 15 to 18 months and questioned the timing of the union’s intervention.

“Where were they a year ago when we released these curriculum areas? Where were they three months ago when we went back out for consultation? It’s all very unusual and curious that they’re out playing politics at a time where they should be around the bargaining table. That’s where we want them,” she explained.

Stanford pointed out that the Primary Principals’ Collective Bargaining Union (PPCBU) successfully ratified a renewed collective agreement with over 90% member support. She suggested that if the PPCBU could reach a settlement in good faith, other unions should also be able to engage constructively in negotiations.

The NZEI has yet to provide a response to Stanford’s remarks.

Union Responds to Criticism

In a previous statement, NZEI Te Riu Roa president Ripeka Lessels highlighted that nearly 50,000 educators are members of the NZEI, emphasizing that the union is member-led. “This means educators decide whether to accept or reject Government offers and whether or not to strike. These decisions are made by vote,” she stated.

Lessels also addressed the minister’s criticisms, asserting that they reflect a broader attack on the educators who are dedicated to working with students. “When the minister criticises NZEI Te Riu Roa, she criticises 50,000 educators, who choose to work with tamariki because they care.”

Today’s strike marks a historic moment as teachers, principals, support staff, and Ministry of Education employees come together in solidarity, illustrating the widespread sentiment that significant changes are necessary in the education sector. Lessels noted, “It is a historic moment to see all of these educators walk off the job together. That tells you how widespread the feeling is that change is needed in education.”