The Central Council of the Iraqi Teachers Syndicate met today, Sunday, under the leadership of Uday Hatem Al-Issawi, head of the Syndicate, to address a growing dispute with the Ministry of Finance.
According to a statement from the union, the meeting focused on the Finance Ministry’s objection and appeal against the ratification of the first amendment to the Ministry of Education Law No. 22 of 2011. The union urged all educational staff to stay informed and anticipate key decisions from the Central Council regarding this matter.
Finance Ministry Letters Spark Controversy
Two letters from the Ministry of Finance triggered concern and criticism among teachers:
- Challenge to the Law Amendment: One letter questioned the ratification of the first amendment to Law No. 22, citing scarcity of funds, reliance on borrowing to pay salaries, and volatile oil prices, which account for over 90% of Iraq’s budget revenue.
- Contract Teachers’ Salaries: The second letter stated the inability to allocate funds for contract teachers’ salaries, adding further tension to the debate.
The letters prompted the Syndicate to call an emergency meeting and warn of potential escalatory measures if the issue is not resolved.
Parliamentary Call for Intervention
On Sunday, Ali Gharkan Al-Dalfi, a member of the parliamentary education committee, urged the Prime Minister to instruct the Finance Ministry to halt the appeal process. He emphasized the financial implications of blocking the law amendment and stressed the need for swift action to protect teachers’ interests.
The situation remains fluid, and the Teachers Syndicate has promised updates as the Central Council deliberates on next steps.
