Probation Extension Welcomed By INTO [into.ie]
- Published: 14 February 2011
Statement by Irish National Teachers' Organisation on probation extension.
Probation extension welcomed by INTO
The Teaching Council today announced that newly qualified teachers, unable to finish their probation within three years can apply for an extension. The INTO described the development as good news for newly qualified teachers struggling to find regular employment.
At the moment up to 1,000 teachers are finding it difficult to get regular work. Because of this many cannot finish their probation period within three years, the time allowed to do this.
Today the Council announced that teachers can get extensions to this time for a number of reasons. These include unemployment, employment outside Ireland, long term sickness, maternity, paternity or adoptive leave. Also included are unpaid leave, bereavements or absence due to caring for a close relative with serious illness.
Sheila Nunan, General Secretary, INTO, said given the crisis in teacher employment the union had met with the Teaching Council to get clarity on possible extensions to probation. She said uncertainty had added greatly to the stress of newly qualified teachers unable to get enough work to get their probation.
Full Story: www.into.ie
