Unite says both the union and  its members are “disappointed” by what it describes as the Government of Gibraltar’s “dismissal” of its “legitimate concerns” raised regarding the pay and conditions of Special Needs Learning Support Assistants (SNLSAs). 

A statement continued: “While the Government acknowledges the vital role SNLSAs play in supporting children with additional needs, its failure to recognise the fairness of our claim demonstrates a lack of genuine commitment to valuing these essential workers. 

“HMGOG recognises the need to increase SNLSA numbers, yet this expansion has come without a proportionate recognition of the workload, complexity, and responsibilities these professionals take on daily. The assertion that SNLSAs are not underpaid ignores the realities of the rising cost of living and the fact that they were never included in the Department of Education’s pay review in 2018. 

“The Government’s comparison to UK salaries is misleading, as it fails to account for the full picture. A quick search reveals that experienced professionals in equivalent UK roles can earn up to £31,184 per annum—a significantly higher figure than what the SNLSA is currently advocating for. Unite maintains that a proper evaluation of pay and conditions is necessary to ensure these workers are treated with the fairness they deserve. 

“While the Government attempts to conflate this issue with broader public sector pay negotiations, Unite remains focused on advocating for SNLSAs and their right to fair wages and conditions. 

“Unite will continue to advocate for SNLSAs until they receive the recognition and remuneration they rightfully deserve.”