The policy surrounding the involuntary transfer of teachers i Government schools has been revamped and the new version will come into effect on September 1.

The news came on Friday as Shadow Education Minister Tim Smith questioned what criteria surrounded the transfers through Parliamentary questions in the House of Assembly.

He raised his concerns after hearing that a new policy had been put in place but had not been made known to the public or teachers.

Premier Jennifer Smith, who speaks for education in the Lower House, answered his queries, noting that: "Under this Government, and in consultation with the Association of School Principals and the Bermuda Union of Teachers, the Ministry of Education has developed a policy on involuntary transfer.

"This policy has recently been finalised and becomes effective September 1, 2000.'' Meanwhile, as of July 6, two schools -- Elliot and Victor Scott -- are set to see involuntary transfers next year.

The number of teachers due to move was undetermined as the process was ongoing, added Ms Smith.

However, Mr. Smith told The Royal Gazette last night that he had learned that there were an inordinate number of involuntary transfers and many teachers who contacted him still do not know where they will be teaching in September.

He added that some teachers had been transferred and were not happy about it.

Mr. Smith said he asked his questions to try and illicit from Government the extent of transfers this year and understand why they were being transferred as details were sparse.

He said some teachers were resisting being transferred and that there had been a lack of consultation from Government.

Ms Smith told MPs that the criteria for the involuntary transfers had not changed since the Progressive Labour Party took over Government from the United Bermuda Party in November, 1998.

The transfers were governed by an agreement between Government and the Bermuda Union of Teachers and the criteria is contained in the Policy and Procedures Manual, continued Ms Smith.

This stated: "The Ministry of Education recognises the professional growth and improvement associated with transfers and therefore encourages teachers to avail themselves of the opportunity to broaden their experiences through transfers to other schools within our system.

"Transfers should result in a positive experience for both students and teachers.'' Ms Smith added: "It must be noted that the Permanent Secretary reserves the right to place, or transfer, teachers according to the needs of the system.

"Every effort is made, however, to consult with teachers and principals in this process.''