Rónán Mullen (Independent)

I move amendment No. 7:

In page 6, to delete lines 25 to 52.

I hope this debate will not be guillotined. I do not believe we need that much extra time and we have already discussed the substance of this matter. I raised the issue and asked the Minister to change his mind on it. I recognise there is a need to try to facilitate redeployment of teachers and that what this legislation seeks to do is, in a sense, to embed the terms of the Croke Park agreement into both situation and legislation. I do not believe there is any substantial mischief that requires giving legislative effect to the Minister's power to determine the procedures under which teachers may be redeployed. Although difficulties arise from time to time, the approach of consultation and agreement is the best way to proceed. Notwithstanding that, I note the Minister's assurances and accept completely his good faith in the matter.

Looking at it further, however, why is it that whereas consultation is at least provided for in one area, given the Minister's determination on redeployment procedures and the procedures around the appointment, suspension and dismissal of teachers, it was not considered appropriate to provide for consultation on the terms and conditions of employment of teachers and other staff within the legislation? Will the Minister explain this disparity between the two issues? Arguably, I should have raised this point at an earlier stage but it occurs to me now as I look at the legislation.