Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 September 2024
290. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science when issues will be resolved in relation to contracts for education providers (details supplied) as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37137/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, a new grade of Adult Educator with a standardised pay scale, aligned to the Youthreach Resource Personnel Scale, was formally established earlier this year. Existing tutors were given the option of moving to the new incremental pay scale with effect from 1st April 2023 or remaining on their current terms and conditions.
The Education and Training Boards were notified of the implementation arrangements in April 2024 and are currently overseeing the process of offering the choice to existing tutors with a view to new contracts being in place within the current academic year.
I understand that the Deputy is referring to Cavan and Monaghan ETB (CMETB) in this context. CMETB have advised my officials that they are still working through this process and have taken the decision to postpone the roll out of new Adult Educator contracts until January 2025. CMETB advised Adult Educators of this position on 3rd September and that their existing terms and conditions would continue to apply until the Adult Educator implementation process is complete. Classes have not been deferred because of this process.
