Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
567. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Education and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 349 of 12 February 2026, her views on whether there should be pay equity between principals of special schools and principals of mainstream schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14967/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am keenly aware of the valuable work that Principals and Teachers within Special Schools do in supporting pupils with special education needs and I recognise the very important work done by the Principals and Teachers in the running of these schools. The pay for principals applies to those working in mainstream primary schools and special schools.
Following close engagement with special schools, with awareness of the challenges they face, in addition to a number of other support measures introduced for special schools, the new post of administrative deputy principal has been assigned in all special schools with leadership and management functions and to support learning and parental and community engagement. It is also important to note that the overwhelming majority of children and young people with special educational needs are enrolled in mainstream schools.
Amendments to Teachers' Terms and Conditions, including pay and allowances, give rise to significant cost issues and can only be achieved through engagement and collective bargaining agreements between the Government and the public service unions or through the Teachers Conciliation Council (TCC) forum.
The current pay agreement, the Public Service Agreement 2024-2026, contains a local bargaining provision under which employers and trade unions/associations may negotiate additional changes in rates of pay and/or conditions of employment. As these industrial relations processes are confidential to the parties it would not be appropriate for to provide further comment.
