INTO may change meeting format to accommodate Dempsey

The Irish National Teachers Organisation is reportedly considering changes to the format of its annual conference to accommodate Education Minister Noel Dempsey.

Earlier this year, Mr Dempsey angered teachers’ unions by refusing to give his usual speech to their conferences.

He said he made the decision because of the out-dated format of the meetings, which, he claimed, stifled debate.

Reports this morning said the INTO was planning to change the format of its conference in light of the minister’s comments and was also hoping that Mr Dempsey would change his mind about attending the meeting.

This approach differs from that of the other main teaching unions, who have refused to alter their plans simply to accommodate the minister.