Overpayment figure incorrect
published: Friday | December 19, 2003

THE EDITOR, Sir:

I WRITE in response to the Gleaner editorial, Sunday, December 7, 2003, entitled "Salary Overpayment to Teachers" which stated that the overpayment amounted to $750 million. The Ministry of Education, Youth and Culture wishes to state that this figure is incorrect.

The number of specialist teachers from whose retroactive salary some recovery was made is 47 and our calculation at this time indicates a maximum of 77. The amount of overpayment for the eight-year period is estimated to be $20 million (unaudited figure).

On the matter of the recovery of the overpayment and the JTA's recent position on the issue, this Ministry is seeking further legal advice.

I am, etc.,

MARGUERITE BOWIE

(Mrs.)

Permanent Secretary

Ministry of Education,

Youth

and Culture