15 Aug 2005

Strikes could disrupt start of school year in French Polynesia

7:30 am on 15 August 2005

There is concern in French Polynesia that the start of the school year this week could be disrupted.

Primary school teachers have vowed to go on strike following disagreements over the new school calendar, the training of teachers and amid a call for a top local education ministry offical to be sacked.

The eductaion minister, Jean-Marius Raapoto, says while he accepts the right to strike, the teachers should be mindful of the children.

He says he finds it unacceptable that as pre-condition for any talks, the teachers' union demands the dismissal of an official.

Meanwhile, a briefing has been held in Papeete for the 200 high school teachers who have arrived from France for the new school year.