Dr Kaye said: "After the massive turn out at yesterday's stop work meeting, the government did not try to stop the Greens motion calling for the Minister to enter into talks with the Federation. It passed without opposition.

"The Iemma government's staff transfer model is unworkable.

"Teachers, rural and remote communities and many members of parliament know that it would undermine the priority transfer system and leave the hard-to-staff schools struggling to find qualified educators.

"The Teachers Federation has always been open to negotiation to achieve an outcome that protects all schools.

"The Upper House has now given the Minister his marching orders.

"John Della Bosca has an opportunity to reach a settlement and avoid further industrial action in schools.

"If he drops the ball on this, it'll be clear that all he really wants a stoush with the union to promote his own career," Dr Kaye said.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL - NOTICE PAPER - No. 45
WEDNESDAY 9 APRIL 2008

117. Dr Kaye to move*

That this House calls on the Minister for Education and Training to:

(a) accept the offer of the NSW Teachers Federation to enter into negotiations over proposed changes to the public school staffing
transfer system, and

(b) negotiate in good faith to achieve a settlement that ensures that all public schools are staffed by appropriately qualified professional
teachers.

(Notice given 8 April 2008)

For more information: John Kaye 0407 195 455