TUI has been forced against its will to concede that it cannot prevent the issue of the circular letter on the standardised school year. This circular provides that in certain circumstances a school might have to open on days which it would otherwise close – ie the February or Easter breaks to make up for time lost due to bad weather.

A protocol of the Teachers’ Conciliation Council (TCC) provides that in the event of any two unions agreeing to an issue that affects all unions, that a majority of 2:1 will determine the position of the teachers’ side at the TCC. TUI is part of the teachers’ side along with ASTI and INTO. Accordingly it was forced to recognise that TUI was in a minority and is therefore unable to prevent the issue of this circular.

TUI has placed on record with the Department of Education and Skills its vehement opposition to the issue of this circular and has advised the Department of Education and Skills of the position as adopted by Annual Congress. However, because of the positions taken by the other unions, TUI remains unable to prevent its issue.

The Department of Education and Skills has advised that it will issue this circular today.

TUI is aware that there will be considerable anger expressed at this move which is also likely to be unpopular with parents.
 

Click here to download circular letter 34/2011

Click here to download letter sent from TUI General Secretary to second level branches