The Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland (ASTI) says the indemnity offered to teachers in the current Guide falls short of what is required. 

Kieran Christie, General Secretary, Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland (ASTI)

“In the context of the current global pandemic, the ASTI recognizes that an emergency Calculated Grades for the Leaving Cert 2020 process is necessary in order to provide clarity, allay students’ anxiety, and to allow our Leaving Cert students to progress to the next stage of their lives.

“The ASTI has engaged with the process to ensure that the Calculated Grades for Leaving Certificate 2020 model can be rolled out as quickly as possible for students.

“As part of that process, we have sought to have full indemnity available for teachers while they undertake this work in good faith.

“Unfortunately, and upon legal advice, the indemnity that has been offered to teachers thus far falls short of what is required and could potentially lead to personal liabilities for costs for second-level teachers. This position is unacceptable.

“We will continue to engage with the Department of Education and Skills to secure the necessary provisions. In the meantime, we are advising ASTI members not to undertake any work on the process until this issue is resolved.”