Unite slams absence of labour standards from proposed legislation

Union unsuccessfully sought meeting with Education Minister Bruton

May 18th: Unite, which represents English Language Teachers, said today that the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Amendment) Bill published this week ‘leaves teachers behind’.  Heads 21-23 of the proposed legislation focus on facilities for international learners.

Commenting, Unite Regional Organiser Roy Hassey said:

“Our members were angry but not surprised to see that there is not a single mention of teachers in the draft legislation.

“Instead, much of the focus is on encouraging and facilitating language colleges to obtain an International Education Mark – whereas many colleges would be better advised to strive for a Fair Employment Mark”, Mr Hassey pointed out.

“English Language Teaching is booming on the backs of workers, with precarious employment conditions rife and some teachers earning as little as €13 per hour.

“Unite was disappointed that, in March, Education and Skills Minister Richard Bruton declined our request to meet with him and discuss our members’ concerns.

“We will continue exerting political and industrial pressure to ensure that ELT jobs are decent jobs”, Mr Hassey concluded.