The pay dispute in Extremadura between unions, teachers, and the Department of Education remains unresolved, centered on the demand for salary harmonization with other autonomous communities. Five unions, PIDE, CSIF, ANPE, CC OO and UGT, have called for a new strike on November 7, where more than 16,000 teachers plan a demonstration in Mérida. The union representatives, led by José Manuel Chapado, criticize the lack of real progress in the negotiations, accusing the administration of manipulating economic data and of not providing the proper documentation for dialogue. The last session of the sectoral table was boycotted by the unions, strengthening their call for the resignation of Councillor Mercedes Vaquera due to her inaction.
For her part, Councillor Vaquera expresses her disagreement with the unions, emphasizing that the Board has proposed a plan for a gradual and sustainable salary increase. From January 2026, teachers would receive an annual increase of €1,120, with an additional increase planned for 2027, bringing the total to €1,400. Vaquera argues that, although the demand for 200 euros per month could not be satisfied immediately, a significant financial effort is being made, with almost 24 million euros budgeted. In addition, the counselor highlights improvements in the educational sphere, including the reduction of the student-teacher ratio and the hiring of more teachers. These tensions will mark the term's second strike, after a first day on which participation was disputed between the parties.
Read the full news article on The Country.
