Health and safety doubts over Junior Certificate science course

THE implementation of a new science course for Junior Certificate students looks uncertain as teachers consider the health and safety implications for schools without proper facilities.

Education Minister Noel Dempsey announced earlier this month schools which wish to begin teaching the new syllabus can avail of grants to upgrade their laboratories and equipment.

The new course requires much more practical experiments undertaken by students, in an effort to increase interest in science subjects for the Leaving Cert.

However, the Teachers Union of Ireland has put off any decision on whether to allow members instruct the syllabus when schools reopen in September.

The issue was the main topic for discussion at the 11,000-member union's executive meeting yesterday.

TUI president Derek Dunne said a survey of schools where its members work show many of them do not have the equipment.

Mr Dunne said: "There is strong feeling within the union that it should be deferred until all schools are up to standard."

The union hopes to meet with counterparts in the Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland next week to discuss the matter.

The ASTI recently raised concern about the health and safety of members and students if they are forced to go ahead with the new course.