HM Government of Gibraltar acknowledges Unite the Union’s press release regarding Special Needs Learning Support Assistants (SNLSAs).

The Government fully recognises the vital role SNLSAs play in supporting teachers and assisting children with additional needs. This is reflected in the substantial increase in SNLSA numbers—rising from 78 in 2011 to 225 today—excluding additional supply SNLSAs who provide further reinforcement where required.

Unite’s claim has been carefully reviewed, and the Government categorically rejects the assertion that SNLSAs are underpaid. In Gibraltar, SNLSAs receive salaries above UK levels, and there has been no significant change in SNLSA responsibilities that would justify a sectoral review. Salaries increase annually with experience, reaching a maximum of £25,741. Additionally, SNLSAs benefit from:

• A reduced working week compared to other public sector roles.
• Extensive annual leave, nearly double that of non-education public sector employees, aligning with school holidays.
• Opportunities for career progression within the Civil Service.

The Government will not entertain unjustified sectoral reviews. Instead, salary matters will be addressed as part of the forthcoming Public Sector Pay proposals through direct engagement with the unions. Notably, Unite’s omission of its broader demand for a 20% pay increase for all public servants—on top of a sector-specific review for SNLSAs—is revealing. Such expectations are entirely unreasonable and lack credibility.