TUI right to reject Croke Park 2 – Deputy O’Brien

TUI right to reject Croke Park 2 – Deputy O’Brien 28 Feb 2013 Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Jonathan O’Brien has said that the decision by the Teachers’ Union of Ireland to advise its members to reject the Croke Park 2 Agreement reflects the growing anger of teachers who have again been targeted by the government. Deputy O’Brien said: “I agree with the TUI's general secretary John McGowan who has described the proposals announced this week as “unacceptable” because they will have a disproportionate impact on lower paid teachers. “If Croke Park 2 is ratified then it is likely teachers will be expected to work many additional hours and there is a risk that some Primary School classes will have to double up, to numbers in excess of 40 children per classroom, so that teachers can cover for colleagues who are on certified sick leave because substitution is no longer permitted. “Yet again, the government has shown it readiness to target less well-off workers and teachers on lower pay scales, who have already endured a 14% cut in wages, will suffer the most should this deal be ratified. “Sinn Féin supports the decision of the TUI to advise its members to reject this deal which will further damage the morale and goodwill of teachers.”