School Staff

Tuesday, 16 December 2025

Questions (397)

Roderic O'Gorman

Question:

397. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether his Department has engaged with the Department of Education and Youth regarding the ongoing dispute about pay and conditions of school secretaries and will his Department assist the Department of Education and Youth with additional funding to meet the requirements of any Labour Court recommendation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72428/25]

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Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

As the Deputy will be aware, this is a matter in the first instance for my colleague the Minister for Education and Youth.

My Department has had engagement with the Department of Education and Youth on funding and wider policy issues. I understand that the Department of Education and Youth remains committed and ready to engage with Forsa to reach a resolution to this important matter which has been referred to the Labour Court. The matter is due to be heard at the Labour Court on 12 January 2026.

All discussions between parties remain confidential, therefore it is not appropriate to make any further comment until such time as this process concludes.

The Department of Education and Youth received an allocation of €13.1 billion during Estimates 2026. Any costs arising fall to be considered in this context.