Dempsey challenged on benchmark decision

THE withholding by Education Minister Noel Dempsey of the benchmarking pay increase due to second level teachers raises a fundamental question — is arbitration part of the process encompassed by Sustaining Progress or not?

If it is, surely the minister had no right to withhold the money since teachers are still participating in the process. If it is not, his decision cannot be binding on teachers. So which is it, minister?

Seán Fallon,