Education chiefs say no extra money can be found to fund an enhanced pay offer for teachers as circumstances have changed since the Covid crisis.

Teachers’ unions say they are ’deeply disappointed’ that the Manx government won’t make extra funds available to settle the pay dispute.

In a joint statement, the NAHT, NASUWT, ASCL and the NEU described the government’s position as ’nothing less than shameful’.

The statement was put out following talks held yesterday (Tuesday) in conjunction with the Manx Industrial Relations Service to try to restart discussions over the teachers’ pay disputes.

Unions say teachers’ pay has fallen by 30% in real terms over the last decade.

Teachers’ pay in the island is linked to the pay award settlement for teachers determined by the UK Secretary of State.

Education Minister Dr Alex Allinson said numerous offers had been made over the last eight months, which were all turned down by the trade unions side.

‘It is unfortunate the English trade union representatives appeared unable to appreciate the unprecedented demands on government’s finances as a result of the pandemic,’ he said.

He said the unions are seeking an additional 9% spread over three years in addition to unconsolidated lump sums to the value of £1.75m for those on the upper and leadership pay scales.

Teachers have already received a pay increase of 2.75% for 2019-20.

The pay award for teachers in England for 2020-21 will automatically be applied to teachers here. This will be announced next week.

Dr Allinson said he remained optimistic of a resolution to the dispute.