570. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Education and Youth the provisions for school secretaries who retired between the commencement of the dispute and the date of the acceptance of the July 2026 Labour Court recommendations of an ex gratia lump sum at retirement for school secretaries and caretakers; the consideration that has been given to recognising service prior to 1 May 2015 in the calculation of that payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [65134/26]

School secretaries and caretakers are at the heart of the school and are the key interface between students, parents, school leaders, and other staff. Without them, our schools would be unsustainable. In supporting these vital school staff members, we also support the school community as a whole.

My Department has been engaging with Fórsa to try and resolve this dispute over the past number of months under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Commission in relation to a number of claims, including a claim for a comparable pension entitlement.

The matter of a comparable pension entitlement was referred to the Labour Court and hearings took place on 12 January, 13 March, 3rd and 7th July 2026.

A recommendation was issued by the Court to the parties on 15 July 2026. My Department will closely consider the recommendation of the Court and engage with colleagues in Government as appropriate.

The parties remain in process and all discussions between parties remain confidential, therefore it is not appropriate to make any further comment until such time as this process concludes.