Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We have covered the issue in previous questions. It is disappointing there was not more engagement with the teaching unions in advance of the announcement, which would have facilitated progress in junior cycle reform and engagement following the announcement. I take on board the fact that people from a second level teaching background were on the NCCA.

Nevertheless, the Minister should have engaged more with teachers given that they will be required to implement the reform.

After the Minister's announcement, the president of the Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland, Mr. Gerry Breslin, stated the following:

Key components of the Minister’s reform plans were unknown to teachers until two weeks ago. Teachers learned about major reforms, which will impact significantly on them and their students, via the media. There is a lot of anger in schools that the views and experiences of teachers were not sought before these reforms were announced.

This was an unfortunate start to the reform process. In a short time, the proposed changes to the English curriculum will take effect and the full co-operation of teachers will be required. Has the Minister discussed his plans with representatives of the teaching unions in the period since he announced his reforms?

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