As you return to work in this new academic year following the summer break it is necessary to bring to your attention some developments which have occurred over the summertime in relation to the Public Services Agreement (Croke Park Deal).

TUI opposed the proposed agreement as did a number of other unions.   However, the overall vote within ICTU was to support the Agreement.   TUI was in a minority.   The decision of TUI was however that it would not necessarily be bound by the overall majority in circumstances such as this and that any future decision in relation to this agreement would be a matter for the members.

The Executive Committee decided to meet with the Department of Education and Skills to acquire greater clarity as to the position and the Executive will consider the outcome of these meetings following which members will be further advised as to the situation.

Meanwhile, all members should be aware that pending further consideration of the matter the Department of Education and Skills has decided not to issue circular letters now in respect of any elements of the proposals.

As a consequence, those proposed changes as set out in the Croke Park Agreement do not have effect at this time.   No changes should be made to work practices, timetables or any other aspects of conditions of service as a result of the Public Service Agreement.   In the event of any attempt to make any such changes, the matter should be brought to the attention of the Executive Committee at the earliest opportunity.   This can be done either using the phone number as set out in the TUI diary or directly by email to Head Office – tui@tui.ie

Following consideration of this matter by the Executive Committee, further information will issue to all members.