The government's decision to cut the pay rates of young teachers when they enter the profession could create problems in schools, one expert has warned.

Professor of Industrial Relations and Human Resources Bill Roche told the Irish Independent that the two-tier pay system is likely to foster resentment among some teachers.

It was suggested that if a young teacher sees someone doing the exact same job, but being paid a significantly higher salary this could lead to "major dissatisfaction".

"You could see problems with some of the extra voluntary work that teachers take on in the schools - the citizenship roles such as coaching a sports team," Professor Roche stated.

According to the expert, young teachers may be less inclined to volunteer for extra-curricular activities if they feel their efforts are not being rewarded.

Commenting on the two-tier system, a spokesperson from the Irish National Teachers' Organisation estimated that during their career, a young teacher will lose out by €100,000.

Written by Donal Walsh

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