Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
1681. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he is aware of the findings of the Youthreach Wellbeing Report 2022; the steps he will take to address the staff retention issues identified in the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13628/24]
View answer1688. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his reaction to the Youthreach Employee Well-being Report 2022, an independent report from academics in Maynooth University, which found significant challenges facing Youthreach staff; what action is being taken on foot of the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13843/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1681 and 1688 together.
The Youthreach Employee Well-being Report 2022: A review of employees experience of working in the Youthreach Sector was published by Maynooth University in January 2023. Based on a survey of 325 staff, or some 33% of the sector, it found significant challenges facing front-line Youthreach sector staff and workplace stress but nonetheless found higher levels of well-being by comparison to teaching staff at other levels of education. The report highlighted the dedication and commitment of Youthreach staff to their student cohort.
The key role of relationships with staff in re-engaging young people with learning was also highlighted in the ESRI’s Evaluation of the Youthreach Programme which also noted how coping with the needs of young people, especially in terms of psychological and mental health, is seen to require CPD and additional supports for staff.
The Youthreach programme is staffed by Co-ordinators, Resource Persons and teachers with nationally agreed terms and conditions of employment. They have specific, clearly defined job descriptions. which were designed very much with the programmes structure in mind. Template contracts of employment for Youthreach were negotiated and agreed by all stakeholders.
I understand that Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI) issued a follow-up sectoral response survey last month to the 16 ETBs. ETBI will consider the individual ETB responses and prepare a report for SOLAS and my Department on the issues raised and measures taken in relation to issues raised.
