Mr. Kieran Christie:

I thank the committee for the invitation. In the short space of time available I will make the following points.

The challenge is to ensure that schools remain Covid-19-secure and that school communities are safe. The ASTI remains concerned about the different capacity of schools to implement key aspects of the Covid-19 response plan. Hygiene and ventilation facilities still need to be upgraded. Prioritising schools for rapid testing and tracing is absolutely necessary. There is still a lack of communication protocols in schools where an outbreak has occurred. This needs to be addressed. As the colder weather has set in, keeping many classrooms warm while ensuring they are appropriately ventilated has been a big problem in many schools. Teachers and students are in classrooms in their coats in many instances. If a period of very cold weather comes in the coming weeks or months, many schools are likely to have to close for its duration. The ASTI is also anxious that the Covid-19 inspection model being piloted in schools be rolled out nationally without delay. We remain concerned about medically vulnerable teachers and students. They are still required to attend schools and no remote or reasonable accommodations have been implemented to allow them to participate in their work or studies in a more appropriate setting.

ASTI members recently voted to take industrial action unless the Government addresses key Covid-19 issues in schools. These include the need for rapid testing and turnaround, resources for schools to ensure continuation of learning where there are school closures, a redefinition of the term "close contact" for school settings, and appropriate arrangements for teachers categorised as high-risk. We want schools to remain open to students during this pandemic.

ASTI members have also voted to take industrial action on unequal pay. We remain absolutely committed to achieving equal pay for teachers who have entered the profession since 2010. Industrial action would be a last resort but for a trade union, it is vital to have all the tools at our disposal if necessary.

Finally, we welcome the recommendation issued by the Oireachtas Special Committee on Covid-19 Response that Covid-19 be designated a reportable disease under health and safety regulations. We want to see that implemented.