Probe demanded into health effects of education cutbacks

The damage continual cutbacks to front-line teaching posts, resources and supports are causing to teachers’ mental and physical health must be immediately investigated, a major union has warned.

The Teachers’ Union of Ireland issued the plea during the first day of its annual general meeting yesterday, with grassroots speakers insisting an immediate review of the situation is needed to tackle the hidden crisis.

During a motion seeking support for all teachers’ union groups to commission a joint study to examine the real impact of the Haddington Road deal, Croke Park agreement and other cuts imposed by the Department of Education and Skills, the conference was told frontline staff are struggling to cope in the era of austerity.