ADPD Demands Lift on Colonial-Era Gag Order for Teachers

In the heart of Malta’s capital, Valletta, at the historic Auberge de Castille, Education Minister Owen Bonnici was greeted by a sight that’s become all too familiar. A group of teachers, armed with placards and a united voice, called for an end to a colonial-era gag order that’s been muzzling them for over a century. The Association of Democratic Progressive Teachers (ADPD) is leading the charge, demanding that the government lift the restriction that bars teachers from speaking out about their working conditions.

Unshackling the Past: The Colonial-Era Gag Order

The gag order, a relic of British colonial rule, was imposed in 1898. It’s a remnant of a time when teachers were expected to tow the line, with any form of dissent swiftly dealt with. Fast forward to 2022, and the ADPD argues that this restriction is no longer fit for purpose. The association’s president, Marco Bonnici, told Hot Malta, “This gag order is a colonial-era shackle that’s holding back progress. Teachers deserve to have their voices heard, to discuss their working conditions openly and honestly.”

Bonnici pointed out that while the government has made strides in improving education, there are still significant issues that need to be addressed. “From class sizes to resources, there’s a lot we want to talk about. But we’re handcuffed by this gag order. It’s time to lift it and let teachers have their say,” he said.

Silencing Dissent: The Chilling Effect of the Gag Order

The gag order has a chilling effect on teachers, who fear speaking out could lead to disciplinary action. ADPD members have shared stories of being silenced, with one teacher telling Hot Malta, “I’ve seen colleagues disciplined for speaking up. It’s a culture of fear that needs to change.” The teacher, who wished to remain anonymous, added, “We’re not asking for the moon. We just want to be able to discuss our working conditions openly, like any other profession.”

ADPD’s call for the gag order’s lifting has been echoed by other education stakeholders. The Malta Union of Teachers (MUT) has also expressed support for the move, with its president, Marco Fenech, stating, “Teachers have a right to express their views on their working conditions. The gag order is outdated and serves no purpose in today’s Malta.”

: A New Era for Teachers?

The Education Ministry has so far been non-committal on lifting the gag order. When approached for comment, a spokesperson said, “We’re aware of the ADPD’s call and are considering all aspects of the matter.” However, with both major teacher unions backing the move, the pressure is mounting on the government to act.

Marco Bonnici is optimistic about the future. “We’re not asking for special treatment, just the right to be heard. We believe that once the gag order is lifted, we can have open, constructive discussions about improving our education system. It’s time to unshackle teachers and let them lead the way,” he said.

As the debate continues, one thing is clear. The colonial-era gag order is no longer fit for purpose in modern Malta. The question now is, will the government listen to the teachers and lift the restriction, or will it remain a relic of the past that continues to silence those who seek to improve our education system?