Ireland’s Education Minister Helen McEntee has committed to unveiling further measures aimed at encouraging Irish teachers working abroad to return home, as the country grapples with a growing recruitment and retention crisis.
Speaking at the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) annual conference in Co Wexford on Wednesday, Minister McEntee said her department is actively exploring ways to support teachers who have spent more than two years working overseas.
Addressing concerns about the lack of recognition for experience gained in private schools outside the EU, McEntee stated: “The measures that I announced this week, giving permanent contracts more quickly and recognising qualifications abroad — that’s just the first step.” She added that additional initiatives will be outlined in the coming weeks to further support returning teachers.
Earlier this week, McEntee introduced a policy allowing teachers to secure permanent contracts after just one year. The plan also includes support for teachers trained outside of Ireland to join the workforce.
The issue of incremental credit—ensuring overseas teaching experience counts toward pay—remains contentious.
Currently, only primary teachers have their non-EU private school experience recognised, while second-level teachers do not. On Tuesday, TUI delegates passed a motion demanding equal recognition for secondary school teachers.