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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 7 Jun 1995

Vol. 454 No. 1

Written Answers. - Level of Morale in Teaching Profession.

Ivor Callely

Question:

23 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the level of morale in the teaching profession in the country at this time; the views, if any, she has on this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10209/95]

I am not aware of any recent survey which addressed the level of morale in the teaching profession as a whole. In November 1994 the INTO published a report entitled A Career in Teaching which contained the results of a survey of a sample of primary teachers. In that survey, teachers were asked to indicate their level of morale.

Under the heading "Morale of Teachers” teachers in the sample were asked to indicate their current level of morale. The replies received (361) were presented as high 47 per cent; neutral 35 per cent; low 18 per cent. A summary of the survey indicated that, of the various aspects of their careers affecting their morale, teachers were most concerned about the lack of a continuum of teacher education, the lack of promotional opportunities, barriers to promotion and the status of primary teaching as an occupation.

Issues addressed in the White Paper include proposals in relation to pre-service education, in-career development, the establishment of a teaching council, the restructuring of posts of responsibility, the introduction of comprehensive school planning processes, the development of a teacher welfare service and agreed systems for appraising teachers. These proposals are aimed at ensuring that teachers enjoy a cogenial working life, develop opportunities for increasing self-esteem, personal development and influence in the decision making process in their respective schools.

I am also addressing what the INTO publication identified as objective aspects of career of concern to teachers. These were the length of the salary scale, the payment of qualifications allowances to 8,000 teachers who are non-degree holders, and promotion posts. These issues were the subject of recent offers made to the teacher unions in negotiations under theProgramme for Competitiveness and Work.
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