Government said last night the teachers' pay award would not pressure the public purse - despite an overall cost increase of 4.3 percent.

On Tuesday night teachers ended their work to rule after accepting a deal of 4.1 percent for September 2003 to 2004, 3.4 percent from September this year and three percent for the following year.

Finance Minister Paula Cox said Government took every step to ensure the process was fair.

She said: “Government was looking forward to a conclusion that would not only satisfy the salary demands of teachers but preserve the integrity of the fundamental principle of value for money and not put pressure on the fiscal balance.

“Two offers were put to teachers at (Tuesday's) meeting. Teachers did not accept the higher offer that was more in line with their demands.

“This offer would have required them to work a longer year. Instead, teachers opted for the alternative offer that was broadly in line with other recent settlements.

“The cost of the award in the first year is an additional $2.3 million on top of the existing $55 million salary budget for teachers.

“That equates to an overall cost increase of some 4.3 percent.”

Opposition education spokesman Neville Darrell welcomed the teachers' pay deal but now says it's time to push on with licensing of teachers.

Mr. Darrell said: “We are pleased that both the Bermuda Union of Teachers and the Bermuda Government have reached a mutually agreeable settlement to their dispute.

“They are to be commended for persevering in their efforts to bring about a resolution that they are willing to take ownerthey are willing to take ownership and responsibility for.

“From the very onset of this dispute, we expressed primary concern for the welfare of our children. The disruption to their education is neither desirable nor beneficial.

“Throughout the numerous disputes over the years between the teachers and Government we heard the teachers say they did not feel valued and respected.

“By recognising the commitment, dedication and hard work that goes into preparing for and serving in the educational system, Government is acknowledging our teachers are professionals and they add value to the experiences of our children and to our society as a whole.

“With this resolution, it is my hope the teachers and Government will now swiftly move to implement the long delayed teacher licensing programme.

“This will insure that the professional integrity of the teachers will be maintained while guaranteeing students and parents that the high quality of Bermuda's teachers will be maintained and progressively improved.”