PRESS RELEASE

September 2nd, 2008

McNeil blasts grotesque waste of talent

Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Duncan McNeil has demanded the government take action over the probationary teacher crisis.

Figures published this week show that just SIX probationers out of 70 have managed to get full time jobs in Inverclyde.

Another 27 managed to gain supply positions. The shocking statistics are mirrored all across Scotland.

Mr McNeil described it as a ‘grotesque waste of talent’ and called for the government to put a stop to penny-pinching.

He said: “These probationers are attempting to take on a very important role in society – to teach our youngsters the skills they will need for the future.

“But many of them have no future of their own under the current financial settlement which prevents local authorities from cutting class sizes or employing extra teachers.

“In previous years, education was made a priority and the number of teachers increased.

“My fear is that not only will lots of talented teachers be left on the employment scrap heap, but the current predicament will drive away talent people from getting into teaching in the future.

“It is a grotesque waste of talent and action must be taken to put an end to this farcical situation.”

ENDS