Public Sector Pay

Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023

Monday, 11 September 2023

Questions (2042)

Marc Ó Cathasaigh

Question:

2042. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the position regarding a response to the Labour Court recommendation with regard to aligning adult education tutors in the ETB sector to a pay scale of an existing grade, recognition of service, and pay during holiday periods in order that they do not have to sign up for social welfare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37331/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

Following discussions between the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, the Department of Education, which retains regulatory responsibility for the ETB sector, and the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform a proposal in response to the recommendation of the Labour Court regarding adult education tutors was agreed.

The proposal is to establish a grade of Adult Educator with a standardised pay scale aligned with the Youthreach Resource Person Scale. This grade will apply to tutors employed in ETBs to deliver FET programmes, who are currently employed under a variety of terms and conditions. 

The provision of a pay scale will allow for incremental progression and a career path for tutors in the further education and training sector.

A formal offer has been issued to the relevant Unions and both sides are now engaging on the operational aspects of the offer.