Malta Teachers Demand End to Colonial-Era Gag Order

Imagine standing in front of a classroom, brimming with knowledge and passion, yet bound by an invisible gag. This is the reality for Maltese teachers, thanks to a colonial-era law that’s been making headlines lately. The Association of Malta College of Teachers (AMCT), known as ADPD, is calling for an immediate lift on this gag order, sparking a debate that’s echoing through our schools and parliament.

A Law Straight Out of the Colonial Era

Enacted in 1870, the Public Officers (Conduct) Regulations make it an offence for teachers to make any statement that could be deemed critical of the government or its policies. This law, a remnant of British colonial rule, has been under scrutiny for years, but it’s only now that teachers are demanding its outright repeal.

ADPD President, Marco Bonnici, isn’t mincing his words. “This law is a remnant of a bygone era,” he says, “It’s time we lift this gag order and allow teachers the freedom to express their professional opinions, just like any other citizen.”

The Impact on Malta’s Classrooms

Malta’s education system is at a crossroads. With the government pushing for reforms and increased accountability, teachers find themselves in a Catch-22 situation. They want to contribute to the debate, but the fear of repercussions looms large. “Teachers are professionals,” argues Bonnici, “They have a right to express their views, especially when it comes to matters that directly affect their work and their students’ future.”

Take the recent debate on the new school curriculum, for instance. Teachers have valuable insights, yet they’re hesitant to speak up, lest they fall foul of the regulations. This, according to ADPD, is stifling progress and hindering the very reforms the government is pushing for.

The Road Ahead

ADPD has taken its fight to Parliament, submitting a proposal to amend the Public Officers (Conduct) Act. The proposal seeks to remove the gag order and replace it with a code of conduct that respects teachers’ professional autonomy while maintaining ethical standards.

Education Minister, Owen Bonnici (no relation to Marco), has acknowledged the need for reform, stating that the government is “open to discussing this matter further.” But for ADPD, the time for discussion is over. They’re calling for immediate action, urging the government to lift the gag order and give teachers a voice.

Marco Bonnici sums it up, “We’re not asking for the moon. We’re asking for what’s rightfully ours – the freedom to express our professional opinions without fear of reprisal. It’s time to lift this gag order and let Malta’s teachers have their say.”