South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has once again called on the Scottish Government to listen to teachers and get back round the negotiating table, as more scheduled strikes are due to take place across the region next week.

Last week, the EIS union rejected the latest pay offer from the Scottish Government and councils, it included a 6% pay rise in the current year and a further 5.5% in the new financial year. NASUWT said it would consider the deal but strike days remain in place for Tuesday and Wednesday next week.

Colin Smyth has repeatedly joined teachers on the picket line and given his backing to the workers.

Colin Smyth said: “It is disappointing that once again, a deal has not been reached but when you look at what was being offered, it isn’t a surprise.

“Teachers in our region don’t want to go out on strike but they feel they have no choice.

“The cost of living crisis, following on from the years of misery during the pandemic, have brought many of our public services to their knees.

“I have stood on many picket lines in solidarity with workers these past couple of months and I will continue to fully support those who feel they must go on strike.

“We must stand up for public services and yet again, I would urge both the Scottish Government and COSLA to take on board what the unions are telling them and get back round the negotiating table.

“But it goes beyond pay, and there is real frustration that the disputes weren’t resolved by the Government months ago and issues around workload and a lack of resources in Schools are being ignored by the Government.”