Vol. 528 No. 2
258 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the extent to which the current industrial dispute affects the level of service at Scoil Mhuire, Clane, County Kildare with consequent hardships to parents, teachers and students, particularly students sitting examinations; and if he will initiate any new discussions with ASTI with a view to an early resolution. [30028/00]
262 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the impact of the current industrial dispute on the quality and extent of education available at St. Mary's College, Naas, County Kildare and on other schools and colleges; if his attention has further been drawn to the potential for the dispute to continue indefinitely with consequent damage to students particularly to those preparing for exams; his views on whether there is an urgent need to meet with the teachers in order to establish dialogue leading to trust and eventual agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30055/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 258 and 262 together.
I am fully aware that the industrial action by the ASTI has resulted in the loss of eight days teaching for the vast majority of second level students. I am also deeply concerned that the ASTI are continuing with another strike on 14 December with further industrial action threatened for January 2001.
I fully appreciate the hardship being caused to parents and students by the ASTI action and the anxiety the disruption of normal teaching is causing for parents and students, especially students sitting examinations.
I have written to the ASTI yesterday outlining my views on the dispute and inviting them to meet me so that we can find a way to resolve this dispute in a mutually acceptable and satisfactory way in the interests of the students.
Questions Nos. 259, 260 and 261 withdrawn.
Question No. 262 taken with Question No. 258.
