Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

When we hear the word "review" or any of the other references the Minister of State has made, we immediately understand it to mean cutbacks, or the withdrawal of supports that had been available. There is obviously a complete misunderstanding about the case of teachers. Teachers' unions at all levels have earned recognition from the Department that people must be treated humanely and individual circumstances must be recognised. If we are to introduce a blanket scheme as is proposed, we will do away with this for new entrants.

A number of changes have occurred in the teaching profession, and many other professions, over the past ten years. Senator O'Toole spoke about the physical demands that currently exist and this is in addition to social and other pressures. There is no realisation of these demands in a proposal such as this. While I do not foresee this being acceptable to the Department of Finance, it would be useful if provision were built into the proposal that teachers could opt out for short periods of regeneration at intervals during their professional career.

The Minister of State should look at the number of teachers who have tried to leave the teaching profession in recent years. He should also look at the scourge this has led to, namely, circumstances where many untrained teachers are working, particularly within the primary sector. The number of untrained teachers is decreasing and this is to be welcomed. Untrained teachers are used to fill positions because teachers are forced out by the tension, pressure and demands made of them. If we continue with this course of action, we will compound a recognised difficulty that currently exists at primary level.

It is unacceptable to put in place any scheme that cannot be deviated from. This issue requires simple thinking and understanding. The changes in curriculum have made demands of people. Look at the circumstances many teachers have had to operate under for years. The funding that has been promised may bring this to an end and we will welcome it if it happens. Negotiations have taken place over many years that give small entitlements in recognition of service. If this is to be set at nought for new entrants, it will force people into resistance and unrest. I do not think this can be allowed to happen. Through his diktats and demands, the Minister for Education and Science has caused much stress within the profession. This cannot be allowed to continue.