Dempsey offers little cheer to delegates despite polite reception

THE vocational teachers were asked to give Education Minister Noel Dempsey a polite welcome and when arrived they applauded on cue.

However, as one teacher later grumbled, there was scant reward for their good behaviour.

“A minister when dealing in industrial relations can’t be some kind of wilting violet,” said Mr Dempsey, setting the tone of his speech.