Mayo appeal for ministerial action to resolve school strike action

Mayo Sinn Féin TD Rose Conway-Walsh has expressed full support and solidarity with school secretaries and caretakers as they enter the second week of indefinite strike action.

She called on ministers Jack Chambers and Helen McEntee to end this entirely avoidable strike by addressing the very reasonable needs of these essential staff so that schools can settle into the new year without disruption.

Deputy Conway-Walsh said: “Secretaries and caretakers were left with no choice but to commence this strike after the ministers failed to engage constructively with Fórsa trade union.

"The need for pension parity and other key entitlements has been evident for a long time. A pat on the back and a bunch of flowers after, in many cases 40 years of service, just does not cut it.

“The vital role played by these staff members is well recognised and has increased substantially in recent years.

"Schools are already under enough pressure trying to keep everything running smoothly, while meeting the diverse needs of students, families, and ever-increasing demands of departments.

"We cannot continue with a two-tier system operating in our schools where secretaries and caretakers are treated differently.

“It is evident that this strike will continue until a resolution is found and agreement is reached. In the meantime, schools in Mayo and across the state are under pressure to cope without the assistance of their secretaries and caretakers.

"This is completely unstainable. The Ministers must engage constructively and with intent to resolve the situation.”