ASTI Concern Re FÁS Work Placement Programme
For the attention of all asti members
Colleagues,
ASTI Standing Committee has expressed serious concerns about the proposed introduction of the FÁS Work Placement Programme into schools. It is seen by the ASTI as a cynical exercise in presenting a concern for unemployed teachers at a time when the working conditions, salaries and pensions of newly appointed teachers are under unprecedented attack by government.
ASTI has made clear its objections to theFÁS Work Placement Programmein public statements and in letters to school stewards. In its press statement, the ASTI stated that it was questionable that the government was seeking to engage “unpaid” qualified teachers when there are so many over-crowded classrooms due to the deterioration in the pupil-teacher ratio; that the FÁS Work Placement Programme would do little to help unemployed teachers to gain access to a proper career structure. The ASTI has formally communicated its concerns and reservations about the operation of the Programme to the Department of Education and Skills.
ASTI Annual Convention in April will debate a proposal that the “ASTI vehemently opposes the introduction of the FÁS Work Placement Programme for teachers because of its potential to expose teachers to exploitation”.
ASTI school stewards should immediately advise ASTI head office if a teacher is placed in their school under the FÁS Work Placement Programme.
All ASTI members should be alert in ensuring:
That vulnerable unemployed teachers are not exploited in their schools.
That any placement does not displace an existing member of staff.
That any placement is not used to fill a vacant post.
That there are no vacancies in the area of activity in which a placement is offered.
That any placement is not used to replace someone who has recently been made redundant.
That a person on placement does not take up paid employment in the school such as substitution work.
That a person on placement is not used to fill a post or any post duties covered by the moratorium on posts of responsibility.
The ASTI is concerned that the FÁS Work Placement Programme could be used by government to introduce the concept of unpaid teachers into schools.
The ASTI is concerned that unemployed teachers could be exploited through this programme.
The ASTI is concerned that this programme is little more than a cynical exercise which ignores the plight of young teachers starting their careers.
With every good wish.
Yours sincerely,
______
Pat King
GENERAL SECRETARY 28th February, 2011