Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 May 2024
669. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he or officials within his Department are aware of a document (details supplied); the steps he will take to address staff retention issues identified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21300/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has only recently become aware of this article published in the Irish Journal of Education in April 2024. My officials are reviewing the article, which I understand explores the unique characteristics of the programme to identify variables influencing staff retention.
This article follows the Youthreach Employee Wellbeing Report 2022: A review of employees experience of working in the Youthreach Sector which was published by Maynooth University in January 2023. That report found significant challenges facing frontline Youthreach sector staff and workplace stress but nonetheless found higher levels of wellbeing 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.
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.
I would also note that ETBI recently launched their wellbeing strategy 2024-2026 which outlines their commitment to fostering a high-quality working environment to support the wellbeing of its staff.
