THE REBIRTH OF CORK SCHOOL OF MUSIC SEANAD REFORM CONGRESS 2008 INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY APPOINTMENT PROCEDURES - VOL.30 / NO.2 NOVEMBER '07
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VOL.30 / NO.2
NOVEMBER ‘07
The Rebirth of Cork School of Music
Seanad Reform Congress 2008
Institute of Technology Appointment Procedures
CONTENTS
VOL.30 / NO.2
OCTOBER ‘07
Cover Story
Rebirth of Cork School of Music
The new CIT Cork School of Music building was opened by Minister Mary Hanafin
on September 14th 2007. This article chronicles the vigorous campaign that drove
the project forward in often uncertain times and delivered the state-of-the-art facility.
THE REBIRTH OF CORK SCHOOL OF MUSIC
SEANAD REFORM – CONGRESS 2008
INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY APPOINTMENT PROCEDURES
Contents Seanad Votes For All Graduates On Way
by Paddy Healy
TUI NEWS
FEATURES
Government leader in the Seanad, would
w end the intolerable current situation
4 Rebirth of Cork School of Music
Senator Donie Cassidy has announced i which very many graduates eligible to
in
that reform of the graduate panels for h
have a vote are not on the register.
election to Seanad Eireann is to take M
Many TUI members, both serving and
place before the end of the current year. r
retired, received qualifications from the
9 Seanad Reform
This is the positive result of the intense D
Department of Education. It is important
campaign for election to Seanad Eireann t
that these “legacy awards”be placed
which took place earlier this year. a the appropriate level in the NQAI
at
f
framework where this is not already
TUI members are seriously t case. If the exact wording of the
the
disadvantaged by the current r
recommendation were enacted, it would
arrangements. Only graduates of the h
have the effect of giving votes to level
7 NCCA Course Rep Vacancies
National University of Ireland and of 7 graduates of professional institutes
Dublin University (Trinity College) who b not to holders of level 8 or higher
but
are Irish citizens and who have placed q
qualifi cations! The words “and higher”
themselves on the register can vote. m be added after level 7 in the
must
Teachers of engineering subjects (wood r
recommendation.
and metal), art, physical education
and home economics are denied T words “within the state” make the
The
votes as are teachers and lecturers r
recommendation unduly restrictive.
holding qualifications from professional If a graduate is a citizen of the state
“ Pull TUI members are
TUI has campaigned for Seanad reform for many years.
institutes of engineering, architecture, a holds the appropriate level of
and
accountancy, marketing, music and other
seriously disadvantaged by q
qualifi cation he/she should be entitled
8 Why join a union?
disciplines. Graduates of Institutes of the current arrangements. t vote. The recommendation as stated
to
Technology, University of Limerick, Only graduates of the w
would exclude from voting citizens
Dublin City University and of other National University of o the state who have qualifications
of
awarding bodies have no vote. Ireland and of Dublin f
from Queens University, University
University (Trinity o Ulster, The Open University and of
of
Recommendations p
professional institutes outside the state.
College) who are Irish
Former TUI President Paddy Healy outlines the new
C
Clearly, the recommendation should
The relevant recommendations of
citizens and who have b amended.
be
the Committee on Seanad Reform placed themselves on
are printed overleaf. Government the register can vote.” T has been campaigning for these
TUI
9 Seanad Reform
proposals will be influenced by these c
changes for many years under many
recommendations but there may be p
presidents. We must now ensure
important variations. “All graduates of t
that the actual changes enacted are
Higher education Institutions in the state of the Institutes of Technology. Teachers as advantageous as possible to our
holding a primary degree or an equivalent holding degrees from NCEA and HETAC members and to our students. I would
recommendations for reform of graduate panels for
qualification at level 7 in the National such as graduates of NIHE (Plessey) and welcome contributions to a new
Qualifications Framework should be entitled of Colleges of Home Economics will be submission to government.
to vote in a separate Higher Education entitled to vote.
Constituency. This recommendation Thanks
would give votes to all graduates of All graduates would vote in a single six
universities and Institutes of Technology seat constituency. This would remedy the I wish to thank all those who campaigned
12 Institute News
and teacher training colleges with situation where Graduates of DIT prior to and voted for me in the Seanad election.
qualifications at level 7 or above. The 1993 are on the Trinity register while Special thanks go to President Tim
future Seanad elections.
level 7 stipulation (Ordinary Degree) post 1993 graduates have no vote. All O’Meara, the executive committee and
would be particularly helpful to graduates graduates would be on the register. This head office staff. Thanks also go to the
www.tui.ie - TUI NEWS 9
16 Annual Congress 2008 Pension
Issues
Should PRSA AVCs Be Of Interest to Teachers?
19 Global Schoolroom Teachers wishing to enhance their income in retirement can do so by making personal
contributions either into the Superannuation Scheme to purchase Added Years or into an
Additional Voluntary Contribution (AVC) arrangement.
There are 2 types of AVC arrangements
available to teachers – the group TUI
AVC Plan and a PRSA AVC.
� A PRSA is a contract between the
individual and the PRSA provider and
is not established under Trust and
therefore the protections afforded
exceed the PRSA level. A PRSA is a
low margin product under which no
advice is given.”
12 Pension Issues
26 Pensions Issues
This article looks at PRSA AVCs and by a trust arrangement are not The provision of advice to members
available to the individual. The TUI
compares them with the group TUI is part of the AVC Plan and is provided
has established TUI AVC Trustees
AVC Plan. at no additional cost. Due to the
Limited to protect the interests of
complex interaction between an AVC
the TUI AVC Plan members.
The options available to a member and the Superannuation Scheme the
as to how benefits are taken on � Tax relief on PRSA AVC availability of competent professional
retirement are the same whether the contributions is granted on the advice to members on an ongoing basis
benefits come from a PRSA AVC or same basis as for AVC contributions is essential.
the TUI AVC Plan. The main areas for (please refer to the Tax Relief Table
consideration are, therefore, charges on page 26 of the September 2007
Purchase of Notional Service and PRSAs are
and investment fund choice. issue of TUI News).
32 Notices
� There are 10 PRSA providers,
What is a PRSA? mainly assurance companies,
approved by the Pensions Board.
� PRSA stands for Personal Retirement
In addition, all insurance brokers
Savings Account. PRSAs were
will be in a position to sell some or
introduced in the 2002 Pensions
all of these PRSAs.
Amendment Act and were mainly
intended to provide a pension � The legislation governing Standard
examined in this issue.
product for individuals who had no PRSAs places a restriction on
pension provision. the investment funds which can
be offered – only ‘pooled’ funds
� There are 2 types of PRSA. A
35 Appreciations
The Trustees of the TUI AVC Plan
are permitted. Pooled funds are
Standard PRSA where maximum commissioned an actuarial exercise
charges are set down by law at 5% essentially unit linked funds which
to compare the projected fund value
of the member’s contributions and a do not provide a guaranteed
at retirement for a member making
1% per annum charge on the value of investment return.
contributions to the TUI AVC Plan with
the member’s total fund and a Non
the fund value had those contributions
Standard PRSA where there is no Comparison of a Standard PRSA
statutory cap on charges. In addition been paid in a typical PRSA AVC with
AVC with the TUI AVC Plan.
to the above charges brokers the member paying for advice on 3
typically charge the Standard PRSA occasions – on taking out the PRSA,
Charges:
member directly for the cost on retirement and once during the
The O’Mahony report (published in the
of providing advice. lifetime of the PRSA. The result showed
November 2006 issue of TUI News) which
39 RMA News
that the member would have a greater
� A PRSA is a defined contribution examined in detail the administration of
fund value for his/her investment from
arrangement so the value of the the TUI AVC Plan looked at the charges
the TUI AVC Plan compared to the
fund will depend on the level of being paid by AVC Plan members and
PRSA AVC.
contributions made, the investment concluded “Current charges represent
returns achieved and the charges paid. excellent value as they only marginally
28 September 2007 - TUI NEWS
INFORMATION Have you experienced delays in payment of wages, arrears, allowances or pension from your VEC, the Department of
Education and Science or your Institute? If so please forward details to tui@tui.ie (subject title marked ‘Payment Delays’)
REQUEST or TUI, 73 Orwell Rd, Rathgar, Dublin 6. All information will be treated in confidence.
EDITORIAL PRODUCTION
Peter MacMenamin John MacGabhann TUI News is published by the
Deputy General Secretary Assistant General Secretary Teachers Union of Ireland,
pmacmenamin@tui.ie jmacgabhann@tui.ie Aontas Múinteoirí Éireann,
73 Orwell Road, Rathgar, Dublin 6
Declan Glynn Bernie Judge
Tim O’Meara Assistant General Secretary Education & Research Officer T: 01-492 2588 F: 01-492 2953
President dglynn@tui.ie bjudge@tui.ie E: tui@tui.ie W: www.tui.ie
president@tui.ie
Annette Dolan Hilary O’Byrne Produced by:
Don Ryan Assistant General Secretary Administrative Officer Neworld Associates,
Vice-President adolan@tui.ie hobyrne@tui.ie 9 Greenmount Avenue,
Harolds Cross,
Jim Dorney John O’Reilly Conor Griffin Dublin 12
General Secretary Assistant General Secretary Press & Information Officer
jdorney@tui.ie joreilly@tui.ie cgriffin@tui.ie Printed by: Typecraft Ltd.
2 September 2007 - TUI NEWS
A Word
from The
President
The recent leak regarding confidential discussions at the Teachers’
Conciliation Council gave the media the opportunity to waste further ink
on the offensive concept of the ‘Underachieving Teacher’. Such sweeping
generalisations say little about the challenges that face teachers from
day-to-day, with increased workloads, increased administrative duties
and more scrutiny than ever under Whole School Evaluations, subject
inspections and assessments, and the annual Leaving Certificate point
frenzy; not to mention the threat of disruption and, increasingly, violence,
TUI President, Tim O’Meara
by a minority of students in our classrooms.
Like workers in any other sector, is the best we can do when our just ask for it, you must be prepared
some teachers experience professional coffers are full, what premium would to fight for it.” I sent my sincerest
difficulties from time to time. This is be attached to education in an economic congratulations to all TUI members in
natural and understandable. However, downturn, I wonder? The pupil teacher Cork who persevered and succeeded
TUI will accept nothing less than ratio statistics in the report also show with such a wonderful campaign.
the involvement of independent that Ireland is lagging well behind the
professionals - the inspectorate in majority of OECD countries. This Finally, you may be aware by now
this case- in assessing the competency shows that education continues to that the union’s General Secretary
of teachers. be neglected, despite periodic echoing Jim Dorney will be resigning from his
of hollow sentiments about levelling position at the end of February 2008.
The real story, infrequently told the playing field for all the children Advertisements for the post were
unfortunately, is that the overwhelming of the nation. placed in the national media and on
majority of teachers do a quite the TUI website. Also a copy of the
wonderful job in our schools on a daily It is encouraging that Ireland is in the top advertisement was sent to branches.
basis, often in trying circumstances and three most socially equitable countries The selection of his successor will
lacking adequate support. Our teachers in terms of educational outcomes and take place over the coming weeks.
also devote thousands of hours to access to higher education.
voluntary activities to the benefit of We will be covering Jim’s TUI career
students in our schools every year. It is also impressive that 91% of Irish and legacy in considerably more depth
This work invariably goes unheralded 25-34 year-olds complete at least in an upcoming issue of TUI News, but
and unappreciated. upper second level education, compared even now I feel it is important to draw
with the OECD average of 82%. attention to the magnificent work he
If they have any shame, the latest OECD However, it is an area of concern that has carried out on behalf of teachers
“Education At A Glance” report will there is a gender gap between females and lecturers over the last 25 years in
make uncomfortable reading for our in males in terms of completion of the role of General Secretary.
policy makers. The singularly most upper second level.
important finding shows that Ireland is Jim is a true trade unionist and
positioned joint last out of 30 countries On September 14 2007, the new
th
educationalist. Nobody has fought with
in a list of the annual expenditure per Cork School School of Music was more vigour, commitment and tactical
second level student relative to the opened by the Minister for Education dexterity for Irish education in recent
country’s GDP per capita, along with and Science, Ms Mary Hanafin. The city times and his departure will be a major
Mexico, Greece and the Slovak Republic. finally has the state-of-the-art School loss to the TUI.
of Music that it deserves. As the article
Serious questions need to be asked in this issue rightly states, there lies With Kind Regards,
as to why funding for education has a lesson for the entire trade union
been allowed to stagnate despite our movement in the story of the School:
continued economic well-being. If this “if you really want something, you don’t
Tim O’Meara, TUI President
www.tui.ie - TUI NEWS 3
COVER ARTICLE
Rebirth of Cork School of Music
A Campaign Overview
New CIT Cork School of Music, All pics by Gerry Kelly, TUI Rep, CSM except where stated
At a bend in the River Lee, just a couple certainly, but behind this 21st century Cork’s first Municipal School of
of hundred metres west of Cork City slice of art lies the story of a long and Music—the first such institution in
Hall, stands a new landmark public tortuous campaign. these islands—was opened in 1878.
building. CIT Cork School of Music, This was replaced in the 1950s by a
to give the building its official title, is new building which, while nondescript
a constituent college of Cork Institute visually, was perfectly adequate to the
of Technology and provides education needs of its time. By the 1970s, the
and training in music, speech and drama. School had long outgrown its premises
The architecturally sensitive exterior and a new extension was mooted. The
is more than matched by a spectacular cutback philosophy of the 80s and 90s
internal space that incorporates tuition put the project on hold, despite the
rooms, lecture rooms, rehearsal hall, fact that the level of activity in the
drama suite, library and a state-of- school continued to increase. Then,
the-art recording studio. The ground in 1999, the Minister for Education,
floor also features a magnificent new Micheál Martin, promised a fitting new
auditorium, exhibition space and café. home for music in Cork. Planning
Image © Neil Dalton newsdigital.com
An unqualified success story, then? Yes, difficulties intervened but, in 2001, staff
4 September 2007 - TUI NEWS
COVER ARTICLE
vacated the existing building on Union one-day strike of all members in Cork The campaign for Cork School of
Quay at the behest of the Department Music brought together a remarkable
and moved—as a temporary measure— coalition of union, management,
to the dilapidated former Moore’s citizenry, civil servants and politicians.
Hotel building on the opposite bank The media—particularly The Irish
of the river and to other, equally Examiner, the Evening Echo and local
unsuitable, premises throughout the radio—played a significant supporting
city. The new school would take just role. Throughout its history, the School
two years to build, after all, and the has held a special place in the artistic
prize would more than compensate heart of the Cork region. There are
for any transient hardship. However, few households that do not have a
by 2003, it had become clear that the direct or indirect connection. When
staff were expected to remain in this May Day Strike 2003 the School came under threat, many
inappropriate limbo indefinitely. took it as a personal insult.
Cork Colleges Branch of the TUI Institute of Technology, including the Further action at the beginning of
channeled the anger of its members School of Music, the Crawford College the academic year 2003/04 brought
in Cork School of Music and was of Art & Design and the main campus an October meeting between the
deeply involved in the campaign in Bishopstown. The Branch accused union, the management and the
from the outset. Issues such as the the Government of “an outrageous act Department of Education and Science
General Government Balance and of cultural vandalism” in refusing to at Department headquarters in
EU accounting rules meant little to sanction the building of the new School Marlborough Street, Dublin. While
those who felt abandoned by the and of “disregarding Cork’s long and no promises were made, it was clear
system. Deeply frustrated at the proud tradition of music education”. that there would have to be some
litany of broken promises, the Branch The response, both in terms of movement. In March 2004, the
embarked on a sequence of protests publicity and community support, was Minister for Education and Science,
and industrial action culminating in a more than heartening. Noel Dempsey, announced that the
Pat Ahern at rally outside Cork Opera House, February 2003
www.tui.ie - TUI NEWS 5
COVER ARTICLE
CSM project was to go ahead as a Cork Colleges Branch remained active Whatever misgivings that may have
Public/Private Partnership with Jarvis throughout. The campaign entered existed in relation to Public Private
Projects as the private partner. By a critical phase, with a great deal of Partnerships were laid aside, at least
Christmas of that year, Jarvis had run background manoeuvring and a range for the moment.
into financial difficulties and it appeared of sometimes confrontational individual
that the entire project was about action. By September 2005, the Finally, on September 14th 2007, the
to unravel again. The site on Union project was back on track. Hochtief, new School was opened by the Minister
Quay remained a derelict blot on the a German company, had replaced for Education and Science, Ms Mary
landscape. The staff and students were Jarvis as the private partner. This Hanafin. It is, in a word, superb. At
still squeezed into Moore’s Hotel, into time, everything went according to last, Cork has the School of Music that
Connolly Hall and into fourteen other plan. The appearance of cranes on it deserves and one that other cities
premises spread throughout Cork City. the site provided an immediate morale and towns throughout Ireland may
Despite the flexibility and forbearance boost. There was a special pleasure in look upon as a template for the future.
shown by members and their students, watching as the old 50s eyesore was And in the story of this campaign,
the situation remained unresolved demolished and the new structure there lies a lesson for the entire trade
and the future was more uncertain emerged in its place and there was union movement: if you really want
than ever. Morale hit an all-time low. a genuine excitement as the new something, you don’t just ask for it, you
Christmas 2004 came as a reminder of building took shape. The project was must be prepared to fight for it.
broken promises. completed on time and on budget.
CSM As A Work in Progress
6 September 2007 - TUI NEWS
TUI NEWS
National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA)
Nominations for TUI Representatives on Course Committees
The NCCA advises the Minister To be nominated by TUI to an NCCA management and travel and
for Education and Science on the Course Committee you must: subsistence costs are met by the
curriculum for early education, NCCA in line with public service rates.
primary schools and post-primary ■■ Be appropriately qualified in the
subject and have relevant experience ■■ Become conversant with TUI
schools, the assessment procedures
of teaching the subject at the policies in relation to curriculum
employed by schools and examinations and assessment issues and represent
appropriate level.
on subjects, which are part of these as appropriate at the course
the curriculum. ■■ Have a familiarity with general committee.
developments in the subject area.
In order to facilitate the development Practising teachers will have acquired ■■ Provide regular feedback to TUI on
of curriculum reform the Council has this as part of their normal teaching developments and changes that are
put in place new structures to ensure responsibilities. being considered and proposed by
the course committee. Feedback
comprehensive planning, coherence
■■ Be familiar with general trends and forms are available to facilitate this.
and consistency across subjects and
issues in curriculum development and
courses. Subject course committees ■■ Occasionally provide comments to
assessment. The necessary information
for each of the subjects offered at the media on examinations.
and detail will be generated through
Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle play the work of the course committee.
a central role in this work. TUI will support participation on
■■ Be a member of the TUI and be course committees through on-
The TUI nominates two representatives nominated via your local TUI Branch. going contact with the Education and
to each course committee. This Research Officer, subject meetings as
provides a valuable opportunity for If you sit on a Course Committee on required and occasional seminars to
practising teachers to influence the behalf of TUI, you are required to: address issues common to all course
development of subject syllabuses, committees. Nominations Forms are
■■ Attend course committee
curriculum and related assessment downloadable from the TUI website
meetings as scheduled by the
strategies. Equally it ensures that
NCCA. Depending on the status
the interests and concerns of the of developments in a given subject If you are interested in being nominated
TUI and its members are represented the frequency of meetings varies to a Course Committee contact your local
and considered as part of the across committees. Substitution TUI Branch. Closing date for receipt
development process. (A list of the is available at school level through of nominations from Branches is 30th
current vacancies is set out below). formal arrangements with school November 2007.
NCCA Course Committees: Vacancies to be filled – October 2007
Junior Cycle No of Positions Senior Cycle No of Positions
Geography 1 Agricultural Economics 1
Design & Communication
German 1 1
Graphics
Italian 1 Economics 2
Spanish 1 Engineering 1
Geography 1
Italian 1
Maths 1
Spanish 1
www.tui.ie - TUI NEWS 7
TUI NEWS
Why Join a Union, Why Join TUI?
Current figures show a startling and It would seem that these and many education issues, advice on almost every
ongoing decline in trade unionism in other benefits are self-evident and that it conditions of service concern.
Ireland, particularly in the private sector. should seem unnecessary to spell out the
Whilst coverage in the public sector is merit of joining a union. But recruitment, in some areas, is
better, it is also in serious decline. We undoubtedly a problem for us. Based on
are fortunate in TUI to have a growing, Why don’t workers join unions? a preliminary analysis of membership, it
strengthening union: but there is no It may be explained by: is clear that there is huge potential for
room whatever for complacency because ■■ Legislation growth in membership in ‘traditional’
while growth in the overall is continuing, ■■ Employers’ policies areas alone. In one county, for example,
we are contracting and losing coverage we have 145 members out of 215
■■ The business cycle
in many areas. When our membership or teaching staff; there is potential for 74
■■ The changing composition of
coverage (the number of members we additional members in another. In one
the workforce
have relative to the number of members Dublin school alone, 40% of the teachers
we could have) declines our influence ■■ The ‘new individualism’ are not members of TUI. In some cases
declines, our ability to ensure that our there are inordinate delays in processing
hard-won agreements and our policies Startlingly, however, current research membership applications. There is a feeling
are respected is dinted. We lose clout. indicates that almost 29% of workers prevalent amongst some non-members
We lose bargaining strength. We lose report that they didn’t join a union that they can join the Union when they
capacity. We are less of a force for good simply because they were never asked! encounter a problem. A lot of schools and
for our teachers and lecturers. colleges do not have a TUI Representative,
Also, many potential members would also as such there is no one to approach new
Why do people join any trade union? seem to be quite unaware of the frequent lecturers/teachers about membership.
For successes of TUI and that we achieve
good outcomes for our members. For The Executive Committee appreciates
■■ protection
example, in September 2007 alone, many fully that our representatives at all levels
■■ organisation and representation of members have been given advice on their are extremely busy and frequently over-
their interests – on an individual and contracts and improvements to contracts burdened in their own jobs. We are aware
collective level have been achieved; lecturers and teachers of how challenging representative and
■■ maintenance and improvement of their in danger of loss of teaching hours or branch work is, and how unrewarding and
salary and conditions of employment denial of CIDs have been sorted out; 2 unsupported it sometimes seems to be. As
■■ participation in job regulation equality cases have been lodged; advice part of a major new recruitment drive,
■■ benefits on complicated pensions issues has been which is so fundamental to our strength, the
given, and a case is currently being taken Executive Committee wishes to encourage
Trade unions are seen as a direct and to the Pensions Ombudsman; a teacher all branches to review their recruitment
essential result of a society that organises whose service in Northern Ireland had processes and to examine coverage within
along a division of labour weighed in not been recognised received €48,000 in branches. How active is our recruitment
employers’ favour. Employers combine on arrears; a teacher whose CID hours were at local level? Are we asking potential
the one side, and their combination is potent reduced significantly had them restored, new members or members, approached
and powerful. Combination of workers, with significant arrears; a teacher deemed previously, who might have seemed
by joining trade unions, “is the necessary ‘unqualified’ got ‘qualified status’, thereby disinterested in joining TUI at the time
and desirable counterpart, if the battle is doubling her qualified hours for pay but who might now have changed their
to be carried on in a fair and equal way”. purposes and giving her 3 years of arrears; mind? Who, specifically, in each branch is
new cases have been lodged with Rights encouraged to recruit new members - the
Why should teachers and lecturers Commissioners and new Circuit Court Executive requests branches to assign
join TUI? cases have been started. (Add in a couple a particular officer, or officers, specific
Because we seek to protect them; of John’s (x2) and Peter’s achievement). responsibility for recruitment and to
articulate their concerns as professional These achievements are thanks to our encourage representatives and branch
educators and as workers; improve their representatives at all levels. And they are committees to identify recruitment as a
salaries and conditions of employment; replicated every month. key and immediate objective.
offer them advice on professional and
education issues; represent them – on And it is not just about successes either: The burden for you of taking on this task
an individual and collective basis; offer on an everyday basis members get is not in any way underestimated, but
benefits arising from the union’s funds; good assistance and advice from their this is a matter we need to turn around
offer group insurance, salary protection branches and from head office – advice immediately, and we need your help. We
and Additional Voluntary Contribution on initiating procedures, advice on early ask that you help us in this endeavour
schemes; offer first-instance legal advice retirement, advice on increments, advice and head office will do all it can to
on matters unrelated to employment. on maternity leave, advice on policy and facilitate you in the coming months.
8 September 2007 - TUI NEWS
TUI NEWS
Seanad Votes For All Graduates On Way
by Paddy Healy
Government leader in the Seanad, would end the intolerable current situation
Senator Donie Cassidy has announced in which very many graduates eligible to
that reform of the graduate panels for have a vote are not on the register.
election to Seanad Eireann is to take Many TUI members, both serving and
place before the end of the current year. retired, received qualifications from the
This is the positive result of the intense Department of Education. It is important
campaign for election to Seanad Eireann that these “legacy awards”be placed
which took place earlier this year. at the appropriate level in the NQAI
framework where this is not already
TUI members are seriously the case. If the exact wording of the
disadvantaged by the current recommendation were enacted, it would
arrangements. Only graduates of the have the effect of giving votes to level
National University of Ireland and of 7 graduates of professional institutes
Dublin University (Trinity College) who but not to holders of level 8 or higher
are Irish citizens and who have placed qualifications! The words “and higher”
themselves on the register can vote. must be added after level 7 in the
Teachers of engineering subjects (wood recommendation.
PADDY HEALY
and metal), art, physical education
and home economics are denied The words “within the state” make the
votes as are teachers and lecturers recommendation unduly restrictive.
holding qualifications from professional If a graduate is a citizen of the state
“ TUI members are
institutes of engineering, architecture, and holds the appropriate level of
accountancy, marketing, music and other
seriously disadvantaged qualification he/she should be entitled
disciplines. Graduates of Institutes of by the current to vote. The recommendation as stated
Technology, University of Limerick, arrangements. Only would exclude from voting citizens
Dublin City University and of other graduates of the National of the state who have qualifications
awarding bodies have no vote. University of Ireland from Queens University, University
and of Dublin University of Ulster, The Open University and of
Recommendations professional institutes outside the state.
(Trinity College) who
Clearly, the recommendation should
The relevant recommendations of
are Irish citizens and who be amended.
the Committee on Seanad Reform have placed themselves
are printed overleaf. Government on the register can vote.” TUI has been campaigning for these
proposals will be influenced by these changes for many years under many
recommendations but there may be presidents. We must now ensure
important variations. “All graduates of that the actual changes enacted are
Higher education Institutions in the state of the Institutes of Technology. Teachers as advantageous as possible to our
holding a primary degree or an equivalent holding degrees from NCEA and HETAC members and to our students. I would
qualification at level 7 in the National such as graduates of NIHE (Plessey) and welcome contributions to a new
Qualifications Framework should be entitled of Colleges of Home Economics will be submission to government.
to vote in a separate Higher Education entitled to vote.
Constituency”. This recommendation Thanks
would give votes to all graduates of All graduates would vote in a single six
universities and Institutes of Technology seat constituency. This would remedy the I wish to thank all those who campaigned
and teacher training colleges with situation where Graduates of DIT prior to and voted for me in the Seanad election.
qualifications at level 7 or above. The 1993 are on the Trinity register while Special thanks go to President Tim
level 7 stipulation (Ordinary Degree) post 1993 graduates have no vote. All O’Meara, the executive committee and
would be particularly helpful to graduates graduates would be on the register. This head office staff. Thanks also go to the
www.tui.ie - TUI NEWS 9
TUI NEWS
Irish Federation of University Teachers
(IFUT) for their endorsement of my
(see Appendix F for a brief explanation
of the NFQ). Sportswear
candidacy. It was clear that the task of
achieving election was daunting given the The Sub-Committee recommends for Africa
disproportionate discrimination against that this should be single national
TUI members in the electoral system. constituency of six seats elected under On visiting South Africa, Aidan Gallagher,
However the campaign contributed PR-STV and that someone wanting to a retired Irish teacher met a local teacher,
Isaac Arendse, who is responsible for
significantly to the pressure on government be a candidate for this election should
the development of soccer in all schools
to introduce reforms. If the government be nominated by ten graduates. Non-
in South Africa. Aidan discovered that it
commitment to reform is made good, the graduates would continue as is the case
is normal for many of the young players
campaign will have been well worth the in the current system to be entitled
(boys and girls) not to wear jerseys, shorts
effort expended by all. to stand for election in the Higher
or football boots! Indeed often teams play
Education Constituency.
in their “skins” or in the clothes they are
Recommendations of Sub Committee Bearing in mind the fundamental principle
wearing. This prompted him to set up
of “one person one vote”, the right of
STRIP FOR AFRICA - an initiative that aims
The Sub-Committee believes that graduates to vote in the higher education
to fill a 40ft. Container with used sports
the arguments in favour of graduate constituency could not possibly be in
gear – jerseys, shorts, socks (but no boots)
representation outweigh those against it. addition to the right to vote in other direct
for distribution in South African Schools.
The Sub-Committee also believes that, elections to the Seanad. Rather it would be
The personal note from Isaac reflects the
in the context of a reformed Seanad a distinctive way for graduates to participate
significance of such an initiative.
with a substantial number of directly in direct popular elections to the Seanad.
elected Senators, a new higher education TUI along with other teacher unions and
constituency could be an important Thus the Sub-Committee recommends organisations, sports clubs and some
source of independent expertise. that all Irish registered voters would be companies are seeking your support at
Accordingly the Sub-Committee by default on the register of electors local level for STRIP FOR AFRICA.
recommends that representation for for the national list PR election for
graduates should continue, but that it 26 Seanad seats. A national graduate The programme is supported by:
should be radically reformed. register would also be compiled, listing TUI; INTO; ASTI; AE Consulting;
all eligible graduate voters. Any voter on Cornmarket Financial Group; Topflight
A New Higher Education Constituency the graduate register would be eligible to Sports for Schools; Cumann na mBunscoil;
opt out of the register for the national National Truck Rentals; FAI
The Sub-Committee recommends list constituency and into the register for
that all graduates of institutions of the higher education constituency. Special e-mail address :
higher education in the State holding a stripforafrica@yahoo.ie
primary degree or an equivalent award Thus graduates would have one vote For more detailed information on
at level 7 in the National Framework for the Seanad, as would every other important dates, pick up points etc please
of Qualifications (NFQ) should be Irish voter – they would simply have the check the TUI website (www.tui.ie).
entitled to vote in a Seanad election to a option, if they wished, to exercise this Any queries, please contact Aidan
separate Higher Education Constituency vote in the higher education constituency. Gallagher at 087 647 4258
TUI Credit Union News
In June 2007 a record €1.1 million approx. To join the monthly draw please contact Winners of the car draws and bursaries
was taken out in loans by the members. the Credit Union office (01 492 2355) for will be announced at the Annual
an application form. €5 is deducted each General Meeting of the Credit Union
Congratulations to the September winners month from your credit union account. to be held in the Clarion Hotel, Liffey
of the monthly draw - G. McNulty €1500, Valley Centre, Co. Dublin on Friday
C. O’Flaherty €1000 and L. Duffy €500. The TUI Credit Union has agreed to December 14th 2007.
give financial support to TUI branches
In November 2007 there will be a special holding functions for retiring members. Please note: Application for
40th Anniversary car draw. Please apply to the Promotions Membership forms to join the TUI
In December the usual Christmas car Committee by letter or email: Credit Union are at present being sent
draw will take place. (tuicreditunion@eircom.net). to all schools and colleges.
10 September 2007 - TUI NEWSXXXUVJDVJF
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'BY &NBJMJOGP!UVJDVJF 8FCXXXUVJDVJFInstitute
News Appointments Procedures
The decision of the TUI to seek a for a distribution of size and of
review of appointments procedures in geographical location.
IOTs seems to have recently provoked
a real hornet’s nest. TUI sought the However this relatively innocuous
review at the IR Forum as a result communication to Branches was
of some concerns it had in relation referred to in an Irish Times article
to a small number of appointments. on the 25th September. It quoted the
This was agreed unhesitatingly by the letter to TUI branches seriously out
Institute of Technology Management. of context and appeared to indicate
The beginning of this review was that the Union was alleging that the
communicated to all Branches in June specific Institutes were particularly
and Branches were asked to submit guilty in terms of their procedures. Seminar on Institute of Technology
Act, Dublin, 1st October 2007
to the Executive Committee what This was regrettable and the record
they considered to be irregularities was corrected as soon as reasonably
or issues relating to the appointments possible i.e. two days later in which this “totally untrue allegation will cause
procedures. In this letter it was clearly it was clearly stated that the Union irreparable damage to the reputation
pointed out that it was not possible did not have evidence indicating any of our staff and our Institute” and the
to address these incidents but the aim irregularities in respect of any of the communication to all staff continued
was to improve the process and to six Institutes. “This Institute, Institutes of Technology
learn for the future. Ireland and the Public Services
However on the morning of the Appointments Commission are taking
Public Appointments Service was 25th September the day on which this matter very seriously and are
requested by the working group the apparently offending newspaper considering all forms of appropriate
involving, all Institutes of Technology article appeared some Directors response including legal options on this
and all Unions, to examine the saw fit to communicate to all staff by matter” thus clearly threatening the
current procedures and as part of that way of an email accusing the Deputy possibility of legal action being taken
examination to visit six Institutes. General Secretary of TUI of being against the TUI.
The six Institutes were clearly chosen “irresponsible, mischievous” and that
The concern of TUI is that the pretence
that the appointments
system in Institutes of Technology
is perfect in all respects and is not
amenable to learning from mistakes
with a view to improving is far more
likely to do damage to the reputation
of staff and of Institutes. This is why
the review was sought by the union and
will be pursued to an end by the union.
The appointments system is good
system, there certainly are worse but it
is capable of improvement.
Regrettably the Directors in question
who sent a virtually identical letter
to all of their staff, changing only the
name of the Institute, did not see fit
Seminar on Institute of Technology Act, Dublin, 1st October 2007 to check as to the accuracy of the Irish
12 September 2007 - TUI NEWSInstitute
News
Times article and indeed even went Training Course for College submitted to Cathy Glavey by Friday 7th
beyond the Irish Times article in terms Branch Officers December 2007 at TUI Head Office.
of its accusation as to what is contained
in the apparently unseen letter. Even 16th, 17th & 18th January 2008 in the All hotel expenses in relation to the
more regrettably the same Directors Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone course will be paid by Head Office.
have seen fit to refuse to withdraw
the accusations of irresponsible Notice has being issued to Branches
and mischievous behaviour and the at this time in order that officers
elected at AGMs are aware that a
potential threat of legal action despite
training course will be available in
having been invited to do so.
the near future.
To date the Union is aware that the
The training course will cover a wide
letter in question communicated to
range of Branch activities from internal
all staffs has been seen by TUI in both
organisation of the Branch, the role of
Sligo and Athlone ITs. It is however individuals officers, communications
known to have had some circulation with Head Office, handling of personal
within other Institutes. cases including the use of grievance
The overall effect of this overreaction and discipline procedures, negotiation Seminar on Institute of Technology
Act, Dublin, 1st October 2007
has been akin to shaking the bushes. techniques, the overall issue of
information and consultation, the
Partnership approach to Institute
business, issues relating to certain recent Seminar on Institute of
legislation (Part time, Fixed Term Act), Technology Act
equality issues, health and safety issues.
A seminar for Branch Officers and
Applications are invited for a limited Governing Body representatives on
number of places on this course. The the newly amended legislation in relation
number of places will be limited to to Institutes of Technology was held
sixteen and will operate on a first come in Dublin on Monday 1st October.
first served basis subject to the following: The keynote speaker at the seminar
was Gerry Durkan, Senior Counsel
The course is open to Persons holding who has acted for TUI on a number
Seminar on Institute of Technology
Act, Dublin, 1st October 2007 Branch Office after 2007/08 AGMs i.e. of occasions and separately has been
Chair, Secretary, Treasurer or Equality public service arbitrator.
Officer who have not already attended a
To date quite a lot has fallen out of the
training course or those elected for. In summary he stated that the statutory
tree and there has been an increased
As many Branches as possible will be framework for Institutes of Technology
response from Branches advising the accommodated and in the event of an now is the Institutes of Technology
Executive Committee of what they over subscription places would be given Acts 1992 to 2006. The 2006 Act has
perceive as having been irregularities. so as to ensure a spread of Branch substantially amended the original
The Executive Committee remains participation. 1992 Act and in order to establish the
open to hearing about any such precise provision in relation to any
incidents with a view to learning what That participants would commit to particular section it is now necessary to
can be learned and of jointly developing attend for the full duration of the course. look at a number of separate pieces of
an improved system. legislation. This is regarded as somewhat
Application should be made on the form unsatisfactory and one coherent Act
issued to branches which should be would be preferable.
www.tui.ie - TUI NEWS 13Institute
News
The major amendments as relating to
the operations of the Union and the
conditions of service of its members
were addressed by Mr Durkan.
Powers of Governing Body
He stated that a major change has been a
clarification of the powers and functions
of the Governing Body. Prior to the
2006 Act all of the functions of the
college were ascribed to the Governing
Body though there was also a provision
within the Act which seemed to confer
significant powers on the Director. The
2006 Act has broken the functions into
reserve functions and executive Seminar on Institute of Technology Act, Dublin, 1st October 2007
functions. Executive functions are under
the control of the Director, reserve
functions are under the control of the there is a break in service whereby they academic freedom”. This is both
Governing Body and the Governing resign service in one Institute and after in relation to internal and external
Body is not permitted to give a direction a period of time seek employment in Institute affairs. In addition a member
in relation to an executive function. another Institute. In such a case they will of academic staff has permission to
Reserve functions are specified by the no longer have officer status and will question and test received wisdom,
Act, executive functions are defined as be subject to the provisions of the new to put forward new ideas and to state
being functions which are not reserved Act which in relation to dismissal are controversial or unpopular opinions.
functions. Day to day administration and significantly different from the protection This freedom extends to a person’s
management is an executive function as available to officers. Officers i.e. those teaching, research or other activities
is management of staff. persons appointed prior to the 1st of either in or outside of the college and
February 2007 can only be dismissed the Act prescribes that a person shall
Provisions in relation to staff in accordance with the provisions of not be disadvantaged or subject to less
The original RTC Act dealt with the Act which require the holding of an favourable treatment by the college for
staff under Sections 11 and 12 (12 enquiry and the sanction of the Minister the exercise of this freedom. However
and 13 of the DIT Act). The 2006 for Education and Science. Members of an important qualification is that such
amendment removes the old distinction staff appointed after the 1st February i.e. freedom must be exercised within
between “Officers” of an Institute and those who do not hold officer status the law i.e. a person has the right to
“Employees” of an Institute whereby can be dismissed in accordance with express controversial views, however
Officers were perceived to have had a procedures drawn up by the Institute they cannot be views which might
greater status; all references in the 2006 in consultation with the Union [Note: otherwise infringe, for example, quality
Act relate to “members of the staff” of The Union is in discussion with the legislation or legislation relating to
the college. Department of Education and Science incitement to hatred.
and Institute Management with a view
In relation to the powers of dismissal to agreeing such procedures which it Mr Durkan warned that he was
from office, those persons who were is hoped will be common procedures giving an opinion following an initial
appointed prior to the 1st February 2007 across all Institutes]. consideration of the issues but that the
will continue to hold officer status as final determination of any issue thrown
long as they remain employed within Academics Freedom up by the legislation would ultimately
the Institute even if promoted. There This is a new section in the 2006 Act be a matter for the courts to interpret
is a strong view that if a person moves and imposes a right and responsibility as the issues arose and it was not
from one Institute to another they will of the college to “preserve and possible to predict absolutely what it
continue to hold officers status unless promote the tradition principles of might determine.
14 September 2007 - TUI NEWS(SFBUEFBMTGPS56*NFNCFST
Car Insurance Home Insurance Health Insurance
Rates down for the 4th Pay less for your home Most teachers who avail of
year in a row plus an extra insurance by letting our new Health Insurance
40 discount for TUI
40 Cornmarket shop around Advice Service find they
members who join Teachers’ for the best deal every year. end up saving money.
Carplan this Autumn Shouldn’t you too?
DBMMOPXGPSBRVPUF
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$PSL
(BMXBZ
4VCKFDUUPFOUSZDSJUFSJBVOEFSXSJUJOHSFRVJSFNFOUT 5FMFQIPOFDBMMTNBZCFSFDPSEFE$PSONBSLFU(SPVQ'JOBODJBM4FSWJDFT-UEJTSFHVMBUFECZ5IF'JOBODJBM3FHVMBUPS"NFNCFSPGUIF*SJTI-JGF1FSNBOFOU(SPVQTUI NEWS
Annual Congress – a practical problem to consider
As part of its ongoing review of the This means that venues which could It is also noted that every year since
organisation of Annual Congress, the accommodate Congress in the past 2004, between 60 and 70 delegates
Organisation Sub-Committee has been can no longer do so. Also, if the nominated to Congress do not/are
considering problems ensuing from the present ratio of 1:30 is maintained unable to attend but provision has to be
increasing size of Annual Congress. consideration will have to be given made for all nominated delegates in the
to moving from a classroom-style planning of Congress.
As the membership of the Union format to a theatre-style seating
increases, the number of delegates to arrangement. This would clearly It was for these reasons that Motion
Congress increases proportionally. The inconvenience delegates through loss No. 76 was proposed to Annual
membership of the Union as reported of tables to accommodate delegates’ Congress 2007. The motion, which
in the 1990 Annual report was 7,900. documents over the three days of proposed that a ratio of 1:40 be used
Currently, membership stands at Congress. This problem arises for to determine the number of delegates
over 13,500, with potential for more Annual Congress 2009, scheduled for branches nominate to attend Annual
members. This growth reflects the Cork – some delegates may have to be Congress, subject to a minimum
strength and health of the Union and accommodated theatre-style in Cork number of two delegates per branch,
is welcomed by all. depending on the number of attendees. was rejected at Congress.
Associated with this, however, is a Finding hotels which can host Congress Branches are being encouraged to
growth in the size of Congress, as is a big problem. For example, Congress reconsider the practical problems set
illustrated below: has been unable to go to Executive out above and offer their views. The
Committee Areas 1, 2 and 3 for over Organisation Sub-Committee believes
Growth of Annual Congress 30 years. And Congress 2008, is that use of a ratio of 1:40, as opposed
returning to Area 4 after many years to the current ratio of 1:30, would not
Year Number of
absence because White’s of Wexford detract in any way from the efficacy
delegates
Hotel is completely rebuilt and large and democratic nature of Congress
1980 190 enough to accommodate Congress. and in fact would contribute to its
1990 270 The established pattern is undesirable efficiency: Congress would continue to
however as Congress is expected, be effective and representative.
2000 371
under Rule, to rotate amongst all
2007 410 Executive Committee Areas. Having regard to the concerns of
our larger branches, the committee
analysed the effect, on relative voting
strength, of use of a ratio of 1:40.
This analysis shows that use of a ratio
ICT Partnerships for Schools across Europe
of 1:40 does not impact on branches’
eTwinning is a simple and straightforward way of finding a partner relative voting strength. With regard
school in the rest of Europe to work together on a range of activities,
using Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). to the concerns of our very small
branches, the proposed rule change
How do you get involved? 2 simple steps! eTwinning Professional Development would ensure, unlike the current
• Register your school’s interest at Workshops
www.etwinning.net Professional Development Workshops are aimed at
rule, that there would be a minimum
• Search for a partner school according to various
teachers who want to learn more about eTwinning of two delegates from each branch
and develop their skills through European
criteria: country or region, age range, language
collaborations. at Congress.
and kinds of activities.
Once you’ve found your partner, you can work together in the TwinSpace–a dynamic, collaborative, online
space where you can communicate, share ideas and outcomes and keep in touch.
The Organisation Sub-Committee has
written to branches on this matter
For further information on eTwinning please contact Léargas at 01 873 1411 and invited branches to submit their
or visit www.etwinning.net
observations for consideration.
16 September 2007 - TUI NEWSTUI NEWS
TUI Annual Congress 2008 – Wexford Town
25th – 27th March 2008
Annual Congress 2008 will be held in Whites of Wexford Hotel, Wexford Town.
Reservations for accommodation during Annual Congress can be made as follows:
Hotel Tel / Fax B&B (Adults) Special Children
Whites of t: 053 91 22311 €95.00 pps **Children up 4–16 yrs
Wexford f: 053 91 45000 €120.00 single to 4 years of €40.00 B&B
Abbey Street, age – free
Wexford
Talbot Hotel t: 053 91 22566 €85.00 pps **Children up 6–15 yrs
On the Quay, f: 053 91 23377 €100.00 single to 6 years of €25.00 B&B
Wexford age – Free
Riverbank t: 053 91 2 3611 €55.00 pps Riverbank **Children up 4–10 yrs 10–15 yrs
House Hotel f: 053 91 23342 €70.00 single Guesthouses: to 4 years of age €15.00 B&B €25.00
The Bridge, €45.00 pps – free B&B
Wexford €60.00 single
Ferrycarrig t: 053 91 20999 €105 pps €42 B&B
Hotel f: 053 91 20982 €135 single
Wexford
3-11yrs 12-15yrs
Quality Hotel t: 053 91 72000 €89 pps Bed & Breakfast €25 €35
New Ross f: 053 91 72001 €109 single Dinner Bed & Breakfast €30 €45
Roundabout, €109 pps B&B 2 Nights B&B + 1 Evening Meal €45 €70
Wexford + Dinner 3 Nights B&B + 2 Evening Meals €65 €105
Whitford t: 053 91 43444 €63.00 pps Deluxe Up to 3 yrs 3-5 yrs 5-12 yrs 12-16 yrs
House Hotel f: 053 91 46399 (Standard rooms are - Free €20.00 €25.00 €30.00
New Line Road, Room) also available B&B B&B B&B
Wexford €88.00 single on request.
**Please note that the rate for children is based on sharing with parents.
**Bookings must be made before 31st December 2007 to avail of the above rates**
Congress Crèche
A crèche under professional supervision
will be provided in Whites of Wexford
Hotel. Further information regarding
the crèche, including application forms,
will be notified to Branches and will also
be available on the website – www.tui.ie
when details have been finalised.
Area Representatives
The following Area Representatives
began their terms at Congress 2007:
Denis Magner (Area No 2),
Tom Creedon (Area No 4),
Michael Stanley (Area No 6),
Manus Brennan (Area No 12),
Joan Sheahan (Area No 13),
Paul McSweeney (Area No 16), Members of TUI Executive Committee pictured at a recent meeting at Head Office.
Back row l-r: Pat Ahern, Dan Keane, Tom Creedon, Michael Stanley
Marie Hegarty (Area No 18). Front row l-r: Manus Brennan, Marie Hegarty, Tim O’ Meara, Paul McSweeney
www.tui.ie - TUI NEWS 17You can also read
