Minister updates teaching union on reforms

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has spoken about the current changes in the education system.

She was speaking to members of the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) at their annual conference today in Newry.

After addressing delegates at the conference, Ms Ruane said: “This is a time of great change in our education system, a change that has at its heart the interests of all our children. We now have the unique opportunity to create a system that provides every child, regardless of background, with an equal opportunity to avail of a first-class education.

“The reality is that those who are opposed to change are effectively attempting to close down opportunities for many of our children by trying to block this inevitable progress.

“I have, however, been heartened by the role played by educational stakeholders in the current process. These organisations, such as INTO, work with children on a daily basis and understand the imperative for reform and I have been pleased by the constructive approach they have taken to the current debate.

“As I work to build a consensus among educationalists, it is the child-centred thinking of INTO and others that will ensure that my vision for an education system based on equality for all children will become a reality.”

Notes to Editors:

• Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office, Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.