French deputies support symbolic teacher pay raise

French deputies in a committee meeting approved an amendment to increase teachers' salaries by 20 percent, a move described as largely symbolic. The proposal, introduced by the political group La France insoumise (LFI), aims to address the long-term freeze on salary index points that began under former President Nicolas Sarkozy and continued under François Hollande, with the situation worsening during Emmanuel Macron's first term.

LFI deputy highlights justice and housing needs

Paul Vannier, an LFI deputy, argued that the increase is a "measure of justice" necessary to help teachers afford housing and retain the best candidates in the profession. He emphasized that starting salaries for teachers are comparable to the minimum wage, calling the situation a "scandal" that negatively affects the profession's appeal and student recruitment.

Opposition deems the raise financially unrealistic

Anthony Boulogne, the rapporteur for the education budget from the National Rally (RN), opposed the measure, calling it "completely fanciful." While he acknowledged the importance of improving teacher salaries for the profession's attractiveness, he argued that a 20 percent increase in a single year is not financially viable given the current budget constraints.

Budget proposal faces uncertain future

The broader education budget proposal has little chance of being approved by deputies without a majority. If the revenue section of the budget is rejected, the expenditure part will not be debated, potentially leaving the salary increase amendment in limbo.

Amendment requires further approval in public session

The approved amendment, like others passed in committee, must now be reviewed in a public session at the National Assembly. Meanwhile, in the Senate, LR senator Olivier Paccaud proposed an amendment to accelerate career progression for teachers, which would cost 22 million euros in the first year and 106 million euros by 2030.

Calls for salary increases grow ahead of election

Recent reports have suggested reinvesting savings from demographic decline into teacher salaries, and several presidential candidates have promised to raise teachers' pay. Currently, the average net monthly salary for teachers ranges from 2,340 euros to 4,080 euros.