“We need common sense and compassion in the midst of the ongoing crisis within Education.”

“We need common sense and compassion in the midst of the ongoing crisis within Education.” - Gemma Brolly

Aontú education spokeswoman Gemma Brolly has criticised warnings given to teachers against striking by the Education Minister.

Speaking today, Gemma Brolly said "Just yesterday we had Education Minister, Mrs McIlveen warn teachers that if they participate in Industrial Action they may in breach of contract. Surely in a time when our system is on its’ knees, we should value the lifeline within it, its’ staff – teachers, classroom assistants, cooks and cleaners alike. Instead, we have one party, holding everyone hostage until they succeed in achieving their demands. Surely if anyone is in breach of contract, it is the politicians who made promises to families and now turn their back while those families suffer. Where is the breach of contract at government level?"

Brolly continued "The Education Authority Director, Mr Wade, has asked political parties to give the “required priority to the education budget.” Aontú have repeatedly demanded that the crumbling education system be prioritised. Mr Wade has confirmed last year that 478 schools in the North were “in the red” on 31st March 2021 and this will surely increase given current rising costs, with Mr Wade predicting a possible £40 million rise in school deficits."

"Approximately £450 million will be required for Special Educational Needs alone in 2022/23. We in Aontú have consistently highlighted the ridiculously long waiting times and numbers of young people awaiting assessment. Yet due to the fact we have no sitting assembly, the budget will be based on that of the previous year and not upon current needs and demands."

"This is a time for common sense, for compassion. Aontú urges the minister and her department to value the existing resources at the heart of the education, to engage and to work together with them, prioritising Education. Listen to the parents crying out for support for their children, listen to the education staff crying out to be simply respected and valued." Concluded Brolly

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The Irish political system is radically broken

In Ireland the vast majority of elected representatives put a finger in the air to check which way the political wind is blowing. They have one eye on their leaders – seeking brownie points – and another eye keeping their seat safe. If elected reps shut up and do as they’re told, they are promoted; if they stand up for what they believe in, they are demoted. No wonder we have the political class we have. No wonder one point one billion euro is being buried in a hole under the National Children’s Hospital and that Stormont is in stalemate.

Throughout Ireland, many people are now afraid to say what they feel, many are afraid to respectfully engage on a range of different topics. Many feel there is a new censorship and a new political correctness in Ireland, that opposition to the establishment is being deleted.

Respectful opposition is not the enemy. Respectful opposition is a critical element of a functional democracy. Aontú will have the backbone to stand up, without fear, for you.