Sinn Féin TD for Cavan-Monaghan, Pauline Tully, has called on the Minister for Further and Higher Education to give urgent clarification and find a speedy resolution for ESOL Tutors in Cavan/Monaghan.

Deputy Tully wrote to both the Minister and SOLAS on receiving representations from ESOL Tutors in Cavan and Monaghan who were laid off without any indication for how long.

Teachta Tully said:

“I have been contacted by ESOL Tutors in Cavan and Monaghan who are deeply concerned after receiving an email from Cavan-Monaghan Education and Training Board this week informing them of their layoffs due to budget cuts.

“These tutors were not given any indication if or when their employment will resume.

“Upon further investigation, it has been revealed that the ETB has not received the necessary funding from Solas to continue these crucial classes.

“It is important to note that Cavan and Monaghan are not the only areas affected by this issue.

“I have written to the Minister for Further and Higher Education Patrick O’Donovan seeking immediate clarification regarding the funding for ESOL programmes and whether this shortfall is due to a lack of funding from government.

“Additionally, I have also written to SOLAS seeking clarification on this matter and communicated to them the need for an urgent resolution.

“This issue needs to be resolved as quickly as possible to ensure that these tutors can return to their employment and that those participating in these English classes can continue their education without interruption.

“A speedy resolution is essential for both the tutors and the learners.”