The Delfin strike continues and management show every sign of attempting to dig in further against union recognition and proper working conditions (at least until after Christmas). But teachers at Delfin show no signs of backing down either. Also, teachers at IBAT Dublin have started an escalating series of actions over similar issues. We firmly believe the tide is against these schools in Ireland and Unite ELT will win, but that tidal wave can be bigger and stronger if other workers in Ireland and across the world show their support. That’s why the acts of solidarity over the weekend were so positive and heartwarming.
In Dublin money was raised through a table quiz, and, what caught our eye (or sweet tooths) solidarity cup cakes were baked to celebrate the dispute (see left). In London the TEFL Workers Union organised a screening of the film Pride to raise money for striking workers, inviting Ray Goodspeed of the original Lesbian and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM) to talk to teachers about his experiences. ELT Twitter was also alive with messages of support.
It is important not only to keep up but to increase this level of support. Their fight is our fight
Note: Sources tell us Ray Goodspeed joined the ELT community some years ago, after working in Local Government for a number of years. He made a great number of interesting and pertinent interviews around the time of the original release of the film “Pride”, one of which you can read here
