Barry Cowen (Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I want to add my voice to that of our spokesperson and my colleagues who have spoken in favour of the motion and I commend them on doing so. Like many Members of the Houses, in recent months I have been approached by members of the teaching profession and their unions in my constituency. I am fearful for the morale of the profession in light of the differentiation which continues to exist and I hope the Government, on foot of the amendment inserted in the pensions Bill at the behest of Deputy Calleary, caters for the commission to feed into the process as quickly as possible in order that progress can be made.

Many of the teachers affected by this are facing purchasing homes, starting married life and various new costs of living, and their ability to deal with them is greatly strained. There needs to be an indication by the Government to ensure they get the support they deserve and they continue along a very noble profession. Many of us would say it is a vocation. I agree with this and I acknowledge the great work done on the State's behalf in the education of our children. I hope the Government takes the earliest opportunity to ensure we restate our commitment to them and our support for them and right this wrong. This needs to be done to stop the flow, whereby in many instances they must leave the State to pursue their chosen field.

The Taoiseach stated the way in which applications are made through the CEO for various professions is cyclical. I do not believe this is necessarily the case. Morale and the commentary taking place is what is affecting the ability to attract people to the profession.

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