Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 6 Mar 1997

Vol. 476 No. 1

Adjournment Debate. - Drogheda (Louth) School Dispute.

Mr. Kirk

A very serious dispute has arisen at the Sacred Heart School, Sunnyside in Drogheda, with a complement of approximately 600 pupils, in relation to the appointment of a vice-principal. While I do not propose to go into the respective arguments in relation to appointment procedures and subsequent disagreements, I want to express my concern for the position in which its pupils find themselves, many of whom will be sitting their junior and leaving certificate examinations in a few months time. Serious disruption through strike action has clear implications for the overall educational process at that school.

I ask the Minister to seriously examine the problem and endeavour to resolve this dispute as quickly as possible.

Mr. O'Shea

I am replying to this debate on behalf of the Minister for Education.

This dispute centres on the filling of a post of vice-principal, the subject of an appeal under the terms of the fifth memorandum on posts of responsibility agreed between the representatives of school management and the Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland. Disagreement has arisen on the implementation of the arbitrator's findings on this appeal.

Deputy Kirk will be aware that school authorities enjoy a certain autonomy in managing their affairs, including entering into contracts of employment between schools and their teachers.

The Minister for Education, of course, is greatly concerned for the well-being of these students, particularly those in examination classes. It is essential that all parties involved make every effort to avoid any action which would increase students' anxiety at this sensitive time. The Minister is heartened by the fact that the parties to the dispute are making considerable efforts to resolve their differences under the auspices of an agreed facilitator.

The Minister understand that negotiations are at a delicate stage. Therefore, it would be inappropriate for her to comment further on the matter at this time.