Several teachers’ organizations, the Federation of School Bus Operators (Federación de Porteadores Escolares), the United Firefighters Union of Puerto Rico (Sindicato de Bomberos Unidos de Puerto Rico) and several University of Puerto Rico (UPR) unions joined a protest against the government, called "La Marcha de la Indignación," at 10:00 AM on Thursday, November 5, at Plaza Colón in Old San Juan, then moving to La Fortaleza. The Puerto Rico Teachers Federation (FMPR) and ÚNETE issued the first call.
The UPR groups include the Puerto Rican Association of University Professors (APPU), the UPR Workers Union and the Hermandad de Empleados Exentos No Docentes (HEEND). The teachers demand a new salary scale reflecting academic preparation, experience and cost of living, immediate payment of the Carrera Magisterial, and dignified retirement and better school conditions, including high temperatures.
Although $90 million was identified in June for the Carrera Magisterial, thousands of teachers are still waiting. School bus operators’ president José Rosado Rolón denounced a subcontracting clause allowing General Services Administration (ASG) authorization despite the bid rules barring it, and about $9.5 million owed for services through May. Firefighters’ union president José Tirado said the Department of Public Security and the Bureau of Firefighters halted contract talks seeking a $100 employer health plan contribution, raises and reclassification, and that pensions run $400 to $500 monthly.
The UPR groups demand a collective bargaining agreement and approval of classification and pay plans.