A past President of the Teachers Union of Ireland and Shannon based teacher says young members of the profession are being forced to seek second jobs.
Bernie Ruane is calling on the Minister for Education to tackle the level of hours being provided to graduates.
Her comments come as Minister Ruairi Quinn addresses TUI delegates in Kilkenny this afternoon.
Following yesterday's jeering and heckling at the Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland conference Minister Quinn has been welcomed by applause at the Teachers Union of Ireland Conference in Kilkenny.
The General Secretary of the ASTI Pat King is condemning the treatment of Ruairi Quinn at that gathering – saying its tantenmount to abuse:
Shannon based Teacher and former President of the TUI Bernie Ruane says her colleagues are expected to treat Minister Quinn with Respect this afternoon.
Already this morning at the TUI meeting Minister Quinn's been accused of destroying the lives of young people with cuts to guidance counsellors.
The conference heard impassioned pleas by teachers who pointed out Ireland's high rate of suicide in young people.
Minister Quinn is addressing delegates currently and his speech is predominately focused on the planned reforms of the Junior Cycle.
He's encouraging teachers to take the chance to put their mark on the significant changes.
Bernie Ruane says younger teachers also need support.