Commenting on the First Minister’s announcement today, Assistant General Secretary (Voice Community) Deborah Lawson said:
“Schools and early years settings are normally the best place for pupils to learn, and Voice Community members always prioritise education/childcare and their pupils.
“However, with the new strain of COVID-19 and concerns about its transmission, it seems that this is a necessary measure, which we hope will be for as limited a period as possible to ensure the safety of all.
“However, our members in early years and schools who continue to work with children of key workers, and vulnerable children continue to feel vulnerable themselves.
“The First Minister said she was considering whether school staff could be given the COVID-19 vaccine as a priority. It is essential that vaccination and other safety measures are put in place to assure the safety of the whole education & early years workforce, & students & prevent spread of COVID-19.
“As a union that represents members across all aspects of education, from early years to university, we will continue to work with the Government and employers to ensure that workplaces are safe for our members and those under their care and ensuring that these members, the heartbeat of the workplace and their community, continue to have a voice.”
If you are a member of Community and need help or advice, please contact us at help@community-tu.org or on 0800 389 6332.
© Community Trade Union 2021