15 July 2002

Trevor Mallard said the PPTA needed to put into action their stated wish to have the secondary teachers dispute settled.

“The government has agreed with PPTA negotiators alternative dispute resolution as a process to move forward. We have agreed to terms of reference and we have agreed to panel membership,” Trevor Mallard said.

“This stage comes after two settlements agreed to by the PPTA executive and a further offer, in which the government’s offer moved significantly. The PPTA negotiators have indicated that they have no mandate to move from their claim in negotiations.

“Both the government and the PPTA accept that we have reached an impasse. If teachers throughout the country accept alternative dispute resolution as a way forward, and I believe they will, then the PPTA executive has responsibility to ensure that we can start the process forthwith.

“I don’t accept the PPTA’s view that we are “pushing members” by wanting a response from their members tomorrow.

“New Zealanders understand how fax machines work.

“This is a win-win situation for teachers. The government has agreed to accept the outcomes recommended by the independent panel. We have also accepted that the PPTA will not be bound by the recommendations but will have the opportunity to seek ratification from their membership.

“We believe we are acting in good faith with this process. I urge the PPTA executive to follow suite,” Trevor Mallard said.

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