Opposition Spokesperson on Education Dr. Angela Brown Burke has expressed disapproval with the Prime Ministers suggestion of differentiated compensation for teachers, based on vaccination status.

In a statement, Dr. Brown Burke said the government must take a more democratic and inclusive approach to governance and avoid mandatory policies around vaccination of teachers where possible.

She suggests that government work toward creating meaningful partnerships with teachers and principals, so that they may be better able to address the fears and concerns of teachers. 

Dr. Brown Burke said sustained dialogue with teachers and principals to identify and allay the concerns expressed, will go a far way in increasing the number of vaccinated public school professionals.

She also called into question the rationale for the Prime Minister to make a suggestion about preferential treatment, when according to the Jamaica Teachers Association, the vaccine take up rate among teachers is very high.