Social Democrats TD Jen Cummins has reiterated her support for school secretaries and caretakers as their dispute goes before the Labour Court today.
Deputy Cummins, who is the party’s education spokesperson, said:
“I welcome today’s development that the long-running dispute involving school secretaries and caretakers will be heard by the Labour Court. This is exactly the progression I called for back in September when strikes were still ongoing and it was far from clear at the time that the Department was serious about meaningful engagement with the workers and their trade union representatives at Fórsa.
“For too long, these essential workers, who are the backbone of our school communities, have been denied the basic fairness and dignity afforded to their colleagues in the education sector. It is vitally important that the Labour Court fully understands the substance of what they are asking for – parity with their peers, particularly in relation to pension entitlements, and recognition of their long years of service.
“This dispute would not have needed a Labour Court referral in the first place if these workers’ reasonable demands had simply been granted by the Department. Our education system cannot be whole when those who are vital to keeping our schools running are treated as second-class employees.
“I will continue to stand with school secretaries and caretakers and press for a just resolution that recognises their contribution and ensures they receive the respect and equitable treatment they deserve.”
January 12, 2026