Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 February 2026
187. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she accepts, in relation to the current school secretaries and caretakers dispute, that the underlying issue is one of historic pay and pension inequality and insecure employment; and if she will commit to fully implementing any Labour Court recommendation that seeks to address these long-standing issues. [11010/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra194. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on giving secretaries and caretakers pension parity and leave entitlements; the possible solutions being put forward by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10102/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 187 and 194 together.
School secretaries and caretakers are at the heart of the school and are the key interface between students, parents, school leaders and other staff. Without them, our schools would be unsustainable. In supporting these vital school staff members, we also support the school community as a whole.
My Department has been engaging with Fórsa and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation over the past number of months under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Commission in relation to a number of claims including a claim for a comparable pension entitlement.
The matter was referred to the Labour Court and a hearing took place on 12th January 2026. Both parties await the recommendation of the Court. The parties remain in process, and my department remains committed and ready to engage with Fórsa to reach a resolution on this important matter.
As with any industrial relations process, where engagement is sensitive and complex, the matters under discussion are confidential until this process concludes.
