Government

Mapp Says He Won't Negotiate With A.F.T. With 'Gun To My Head'

ST. CROIX -- Governor Kenneth Mapp late Tuesday issued a statement following the job action taken by A.F.T. teachers in this district. In the statement -- requested by The Consortium Tuesday afternoon -- the governor expressed frustration with the strike, and said he was at a loss as to why the action was taken. "On what basis or reason is the A.F.T. disrupting the school instruction process by abandoning their students and demonstrating on the public streets? While I want to understand the protest of the teachers, I am at a loss as I publicly announced months ago that I will increase teachers' salaries," Mr. Mapp said. He added: "The AFT can be assured that I will not work with them with a gun to my head. I believe over the last 16 months my Administration has acted appropriately and responsibly with unionized government employees." In a press release issued Tuesday afternoon, A.F.T. leaders in both districts said the job action was not sanctioned by the union, however they stoo...