Laois teachers lose dispute over transfers

The Laois branch of the Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) has lost out in a dispute with Laois VEC over teacher transfers.

The talks which were held under the auspices of the Labour Relations’ Commission, found in favour of Laois VEC.

Speaking to the Leinster Express, chairperson of Laois VEC, Councillor Mary Sweeney said that she was pleased a decision had been made.

“I am satisfied as Chairperson of Laois VEC that as a result of the arbitration agreement matters have now been concluded. The arbitration declares that the provisions of the IVEA/TUI transfer agreement were followed in the recent transfer of two teachers from Portlaoise College. I sincerely hope that following the conclusion of arbitration we can now continue providing the best possible teaching and learning environment for all our students throughout our schools and education centres in County Laois.”

The dispute between the two parties began during the summer, and resulted in two TUI protests outside Laois VEC meetings, as well as a threatened strike at the beginning of November. The strike was called off after it was agreed both parties would participate in talks.