We can’t afford pay inequality

■ Pay inequality has created deep resentment in Irish schools for the last seven years.

It is little wonder that there is a teacher shortage as thousands seek the fairly paid employment abroad they cannot find here, leaving more and more pupils without qualified teachers.

This month, Dáil Éireann will receive a report outlining a plan to deal with pay inequality.

A government that values teachers must implement that plan.

A government that is serious about building the best education system in Europe by 2026 must at least ensure that every child is taught by a fully qualified teacher.

The Government, teachers and pupils cannot afford pay inequality any longer.

John Boyle President, Irish National Teachers’ Organisation, Parnell Square, Dublin 1