Last September, it was revealed that Synge Street CBS would be welcoming girls for the first time and would also become a Gaelcholáiste to cater for the growing demand for an Irish language secondary school in the wider area.
However, a large portion of the school’s teaching staff have since voiced opposition to the way the plan is being rolled out.
“This has been a distressing time for those whose lives revolve around this great school, and particularly for those who will be most affected by the proposals,” teacher Adrian McMahon said.
“The manner in which these proposals emerged and have been communicated, demonstrates a clear lack of regard for the school community. Teachers, parents and students deserve better.”
The Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland (ASTI) has reiterated calls for a pause to plans to allow for more consultation with teachers and the school community.
At a meeting this week between the teaching staff and Edmund Rice Schools Trust (ERST), teachers expressed their “anger and dismay” at the ongoing failure to engage with them.
While the Board of Management of Synge Street has declared its opposition to the proposed changes being introduced in 2026, this has been overruled by the school patron body.
“The manner in which teachers working at Synge Street have been treated is shabby at best,” Diarmaid de Paor, ASTI Deputy General Secretary, said.