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

The concerns of teachers were wider than presented by the Minister. They were concerned that the announcement was not accompanied by a plan setting out how teachers would be supported in bringing about the significant changes that will be needed as part of junior certificate reform. While there is no doubt about the potential to improve the curriculum, teachers must be a core part of any such change. They believe the proposals were landed on them without sufficient engagement on how the reforms would be introduced and what supports would be provided to them. Naturally, they are also concerned that they will be asked to make these changes without sufficient supports and resources being made available to enable them to do so. The Minister must hold formal meetings with representatives of second level teachers as soon as possible to resolve the outstanding issues.

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