Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 16 September 2016
463. Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Education and Skills if consideration will be given to providing non-union teachers the opportunity to opt into the Lansdowne Road Agreement in the context of any disputes or divisions that may take place in the foreseeable future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25738/16]
View answerAs is the norm with public service collective agreements, the Lansdowne Road Agreement was negotiated with trade unions which are recognised as representing staff in the public service (including teachers). It is normal practice in the public service that the decision of the trade union recognised as holding representative rights for a particular grade or sector will determine the position for all relevant staff in that grade/sector. This context does not allow for acceptance or rejection of collective agreements by staff on an individual basis.
Accordingly, there is no proposal at this time to treat teachers separately based on the fact that they are not a member of a trade union.
