President of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) Dr. Mark Smith, says educators will not accept the Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC) Bill in its current form, calling it a betrayal.

After 21 years of deliberation, the bill, which is aimed at regulating the teaching profession, was approved by the Senate on Friday, April 25 with 38 amendments.

It is expected to return to the Lower House for further approval before being sent to the Governor General.

Once enacted, the legislation will give unregistered teachers two years to register with the Jamaica Teaching Council.

Speaking at the JTA’s National Education Week Church Service this morning, Dr. Smith described the approach being taken as heavy-handed.