Resolution of row over parent-teacher meetings in doubt

A DISPUTE which has delayed pay increases to almost 50,000 teachers could be far from resolution despite the matter being due for independent assessment next week.

The row over the times of parent-teacher meetings has brought Education Minister Noel Dempsey’s relations with the ASTI, TUI and INTO unions to an all-time low. It centres around his demand that teachers be available at any time suitable to parents who are unable to attend scheduled meetings.

After failing to reach agreement in two days of talks at the Teachers Conciliation Council earlier this month, the row has been referred to a hearing by the public service arbitration board next Monday. But the determination of the board will not be binding and a senior union source said they would not accept the result if it is unsatisfactory for their members.