The Executive Committee of the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) today decided to recommend that members accept the negotiated Junior Cycle proposals in an upcoming ballot.
Following intensive discussions between union representatives and the Department of Education and Skills, a Joint Statement on Principles and Implementation was agreed last May and an appendix to the document on time and resources was agreed in July.
Speaking this afternoon, TUI President Gerry Quinn said that ‘the Executive Committee of the TUI has comprehensively analysed the proposals and consider that they meet and allay the deep concerns expressed by teachers both in terms of assessment of students and the time and resources required by teachers and schools to implement the proposed new Junior Cycle programme.’
‘Crucially, the proposals secure and enhance the externally assessed Junior Certificate.’
‘Significant concerns about additional bureaucracy have been adequately addressed. Responsibility for the administration and assessment of the Junior Certificate will remain with the State Examinations Commission and will not be foisted on schools.’
‘Our principled and consistent position has always been that elements of previous proposals posed grave threats to the quality of the Irish education system and its service to students.’
‘We believe that the latest negotiated proposals will enhance second level education while protecting the working conditions of teachers. The proposals outline a progressive and positive way forward.’
‘A highly significant element of the document which we are voting on is the inclusion of an implementation committee, comprised of representatives of the Department and the trade unions. This committee will monitor implementation of the proposals and ensure that any issues which may arise are appropriately addressed.’
Ballot papers will be posted from TUI head office on September 9th and the ballot will close on September 23rd.
TUI members are being balloted on the acceptablity of the negotiated document Joint Statement on Principles and Implementation (click here to download) and an appendix to this document on Professional Time to Support Implemenation (click here to download). Both documents have issued to members in hard copy.