Public school teachers who are upset about ongoing wage issues are expected to take industrial action today (May 25) and tomorrow.

The Jamaica Teachers Association (JTA) said schools in at least seven parishes will be impacted.

These are Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, Manchester, Clarendon, St. Catherine, St. Thomas, Kingston and St. Andrew.

JTA President La Sonja Harrison said the decision was made by the membership who voted on the action yesterday.

The industrial action is intended to highlight teachers’ dissatisfaction with how matters relating to their salary are being handled by the Government.

Harrison said arising from the public sector compensation restructuring, several anomalies were identified, and despite submitting letters on three occasions to Finance Minister Dr Nigel Clarke, he has not responded.

The JTA President labelled as unacceptable, the continued disrespect and disregard for the nation’s teachers.

Harrison has also taken note of comments by Dr Clarke about her only engaging with the media, instead of being at the negotiating table.

The JTA President said Dr Clarke should act responsibly and professionally, by responding, in writing, to the letters sent by the Association.

Harrison said the Government should take certain steps to resolve the challenges.