The Alliance for Change (AFC) calls on Government to increase the salary of school cleaners to a minimum of $40,000.00 per month from January 1, 2013. Government should not delay payment pending approval of a national minimum wage.
AFC recognizes school cleaners as among the lowest paid working poor, almost all of whom are women and single parents.
It is appalling that these cleaners have been receiving just over $15,000.00 (or US$75) per month for a six-hour working day.
AFC was told that since 2003 this salary remained fixed, and did not go up with annual increases in the public sector, even though cleaning is considered a public service employment.
Cleaners disclosed that the monthly salary is based on the number of working hours per month, irrespective of the size of the schools.
The Ministry of Public Service has issued a circular on the range of activities cleaners must do. These include:-
- Sweep floors and clean windows, sills, walls, furniture and offices;
- Clean and disinfect toilets and sinks;
- Provide lavatories with toilet paper, soap and towel;
- Mopping of floor once weekly;
- Wash office towels.
The Ministry circular recognized that the job of cleaners is “unpleasant” as these workers are exposed to “toilet stench”, and to dust and dirt.
We demand justice for school cleaners in view of the advocacy by government officials of a $3 million monthly package for past presidents, on the ground that money is not a problem!
Cleaners must make their Broom a Symbol of Justice! [END]
6th February, 2013
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