The Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA) has just concluded its conference, and the educators are at it again - threatened disruption at the start of the school year in response to them not getting money owed to them at an opportune time.

Well, I agree with them; the Government is taking teachers for a set of fools. Where in the world money is owed to any set of people and it is going to take three years to pay them. That is disrespect. Teachers are being disrespected and no wonder the students and parents treat us with scant regard. The Government must sit at the table and show some respect for teachers.

But it is time the JTA stopped threatening every time there is a disagreement with the Government and just take action. We threaten and threaten and never do anything. No wonder they take us for fools.

We are willing to be paid by performance, but only when the necessary adjustments have been made to the education sector.

Teachers, speak up for your rights to get our money; it is not a privilege. In response to Brian Lynch's letter of August 20, if you work and your boss does not pay you, I am sure you will not be happy and well geared up to work even harder.

Teachers, it is time that we stop talking and start acting.

I am, etc.,

Stacie Williams

slimmas24@hotmail.com

St Ann