By Dan Walsh
Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has welcomed the positive progress being made in relation to regularising pay and conditions for school secretaries and caretakers.
Minister Browne, who along with his Fianna Fáil Party colleagues, campaigned for an end to the two tier structure which saw some school secretaries at a disadvantage when it came to sick leave, certainty of hours or pay increases, said it was important that Education Minister, Norma Foley T.D., move quickly on the issue.
Minister Browne told WexfordLocal.com; “Everyone knows their school secretary and caretaker – they are integral to the running of a school and have been taking on more responsibilities than ever, from assisting principals with complex administration, to organising fundraising for school events.
“They really are the backbone of most schools and often the first port of call for students and parents and it’s important that this is recognised. “In these difficult times where we are expecting a lot from our schools it’s important that they know that they are valued and appreciated,” Minister Browne concluded.
The news is also welcomed by Cllr Lisa McDonald of the Rosslare Municipal District Council who told WexfordLocal.com; “This was in Fianna Fáil’s General Election manifesto. Good news for our school secretaries and caretakers!”
WexfordLocal.com 