“An outrage and violation of rights”… that is how the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) has described the situation relating to schools still being used as hurricane shelters.

President Mark Malabver was responding to comments by the government about the issue, while calling for the educational institutions to be restored to their intended purpose.

Speaking at the JTA conference, Malabver decried what he deemed unacceptable conditions that both teachers and students have to be enduring, following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

Reacting to comments by Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie, the president said the JTA will represent its members without apology. 

He pointed out that the continued occupation of the schools by shelterees is a violation of the rights of teaches and students.