Mr. Andy Pike:

I cannot speak for teachers. We represent SNAs and health professionals. I can leave it to others to look at the contribution that teachers can make.

One of the comments we continually make to the Department is that where the arrangements are announced so late in the school year, I should imagine that if one is a school leader such as a principal or deputy principal - my colleagues can speak on their behalf - it gives a person very little time to get everything organised.

If it was the case that the circular issued at the beginning of the school year, schools could at least plan with a little more information. It seems to be done at the very last minute and that should change.