THE MINISTER FOR Education Ruairí Quinn has said that the relationship between the Taoiseach and Tánaiste is “rock solid”.

Speaking on Newstalk Breakfast this morning, he said that the “success and solidity of any coalition government depends on the personal relationship between the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste.

Strained

There was speculation is some newspapers over the weekend that the relationship was strained between the two leaders, however, when pressed on the matter this morning and asked was the relationship under strain, he answered:

No, I don’t think so. They get on very well together. They have a very similar background… they’re both Connacht men.

He added that both parties “serve together” adding that the relationship is “rock solid”.

When asked about the situation with the teachers unions and the newly reformed Junior Certificate – now called the Junior Cycle Student Award – he said that he trusted teachers and said that more training will be made available to teachers.

TUI

Meanwhile, speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland Gerry Craughwell of the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) said that teachers’ concerns about the new Junior Cycle Student Award are not being listened to.

The overhaul of the Junior Certificate is due to start in September, beginning with a new English syllabus for first-year students will be introduced.

Yesterday, Minister Quinn said that he realises “any change is always problematic and fearful for people” but indicated he will work with teachers on their concerns about the new junior cycle programme.

Read: Quinn prepared to have Dept officials meet with concerned teachers>