Education and Science, Financial Services, Latvia, Legislation, Wages

During a meeting with the Latvian Trade Union of Education and Science Employees Monday, Seile said that discussions should not focus solely on teachers' benefits, as the entire society will benefit from a stable and modern education system.

Seile emphasized that the government has promised funding for the new model; all it requires now is to be finalized. During the discussion, experts explained how the working hours and wage rates are calculated in the new model.

The current issue concerns implementation of the new model. Chairwoman of the Latvian Trade Union of Education and Science Employees Ingrida Mikisko says that it is important to figure out whether the new model will be implemented gradually or whether the process will be postponed. She said that there is a possibility that the model could be redesigned from scratch.

Mikisko indicated that according to the ministry, implementation of the new model will require EUR 9.7 million this year, adding that there is still lack of understanding on various issues regarding specific aspects in the education sector.