'Huge concerns' over school gag plan

Education Minister Anne Tolley has reportedly stepped in to the block a plan to stop teachers and board of trustees members criticising the Government.

It follows an invitation by the State Services Commission to the Principals Federation and primary school union NZEI to be included in the Standards of Integrity and Conduct code, The Dominion Post said.

The code makes it unacceptable for employees to make "personal attacks" on public servants or work colleagues when discussing policy.

The teachers' unions said such a move would prevent people being able to speak their mind.

NZEI president Frances Nelson the union would have "huge concerns" if the code was introduced, and the Principals Federation agreed.

"It seems like they are trying to restrain us from having an opinion. It seems crazy to think we could live in a country where this type of thing could happen," Ms Nelson said.

She said school boards already operated under a code of ethics.

But it is understood Mrs Tolley discussed the matter with State Services Minister Tony Ryall, and the commission has put the proposal on the back-burner until next year.

Despite the concerns, Mrs Tolley said it was "ludicrous" to suggest the code of conduct would muzzle school employees.

- NZPA