Latest update September 17th, 2026 10:25 AM
GTU condemns Parag for disclosing teacher’s personal info
(Kaieteur News) – The Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) has slammed Minister of Education, Sonia Parag for disclosing the personal attendance record of Member of Parliament, Gordon Barker who is also a teacher during her budget debate presentation last week.
Responding to criticisms by Barker when he spoke about the education sector during his budget presentation last week, Parag spoke about him reporting for duty late on several occasions as she tried to rebut him.
Minister of Education, Sonia Parag
Barker would later disclose that on the days he reported late for school as indicted by Parag was when he had to assist his wife who had just delivered their baby. He also said that during that period he had to attend to his other children all below age six, which include taking them to school. He said he was not habitually late for school as was presented by the minister an that the record of his performance as a head of department can attest to his dedication as a teacher.
The GTU in a statement expressed what it described as its deep concern and condemnation regarding the recent breach of confidential information by Parag. “It is unacceptable that sensitive information relating to Hon. Member of Parliament Gordon Barker was disclosed in such a manner. No teacher, regardless of political persuasion or affiliation, should ever be subjected to vile, disrespectful, and politically motivated attacks. Such actions undermine the dignity of the teaching profession and erode the principles of fairness and respect that must guide our national discourse,” the GTU said. “The GTU strongly condemns this behaviour and calls upon the Honorable Minister of Education to issue a formal apology to Mr. Barker. We emphasise that these practices must never be condoned, as they set a dangerous precedent and compromise the integrity of parliamentary proceedings. Teachers are the backbone of our nation’s development, and their professional and personal lives must be safeguarded from political exploitation. The GTU remains steadfast in defending the rights, dignity, and respect of all educators.”
MP, Gordon Barker
Meanwhile, in a statement in response to the GTU the Minister Parag said that no breach of confidential or sensitive information occurred at any point during her contribution to the parliamentary budget debate. “It is also important to underscore that the Honourable Gordon Barker is now a sitting Member of Parliament. As with all elected officials, his public conduct and professional record are subject to legitimate scrutiny within the National Assembly. Parliamentary debate, by its nature, involves accountability and transparency, particularly where public service delivery is concerned.
I categorically reject any suggestion that any remarks were politically motivated or intended to undermine the dignity of the teaching profession. On the contrary, my comments were made in the context of advocating for accountability, improved standards and the best possible outcomes for our children,” Parag said.
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