Ballot underway for potential strikes in eight schools across Iceland

A ballot is currently taking place regarding potential strikes in eight unspecified schools, which include four preschools, three elementary schools, and one secondary school. The specific schools will only be disclosed if they agree to the strike announcement, according to Magnús Þór Jónsson, chairman of the Icelandic Teachers’ Association.

“This is the first time we are opting for a targeted approach rather than a general strike. It’s up to the individual institutions to decide whether to proceed with the strike,” said Jónsson.

The planned strike is set to commence at midnight on October 29 in these eight schools. The action will be temporary in the elementary and secondary schools, while the preschools will face an indefinite strike. Jónsson emphasized that this marks a new phase of action, with votes planned for further strikes in more schools in the future.

The primary issue at hand revolves around salary equalization between the public and private sectors. The collective agreements of the member unions negotiating with municipalities have been expired since the end of May. Both the secondary school unions, FF and FS, referred their wage dispute to the state mediator on September 26, with the state as the opposing party. FF and FS have been without a contract since March 31.

The state mediator convened a meeting yesterday, with the next meeting scheduled for tomorrow. Voting started at noon and will conclude on Thursday, October 10.