asked the Minister for Education if it is Government policy to adhere to the concept of a common basic salary scale for all teachers; and if any further consideration has been given by the Government to the general raising of this basic scale, to the reorganisation of the current points scheme and to improving allowances for qualifications.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Teachers' Salaries.
94.
The Government accepted a report recommending a common basic scale of salary for all teachers and no question of departing from that decision has arisen. The other matters referred to by the Deputy are ones for consideration under the scheme of conciliation and arbitration.
Would it be possible for the Minister, in view of the discussions he had this morning, to make a statement on the developments relating thereto?
No, I am afraid I could not. I would like to express thanks to the Deputies for the manner in which they have co-operated with me in this matter.
Would it be fair to ask the Minister if he is hopeful about the outcome of the current discussions?
If the Deputy would not mind I would prefer not to comment at all.
Did I understand the Minister to say that no question has arisen of departing from the common basic scale? I take it that means that he does not regard the so-called functional allowances as a departure from the common basic scale? I do not want to misinterpret the Minister and I may have misunderstood him.
At this precise moment, Deputy, I would be very grateful if you did not press me on any matter in regard to this question.
All right, fair enough.