An insider's guide to education

Media interest in the teacher-conference season is low this year. Only a handful of the most dedicated hacks are travelling to the three conferences, reflecting the relatively low-key education agenda. Apparently, hardened news editors are not much taken by the prospect of a "love-in" between Mary Hanafin and the teachers.

Hanafin's smooth leadership may have dampened down the fires, but it has also taken education issues off the front pages.

But things may change. The new minister is promising a plethora of initiatives and packages over the coming months. Don't bet against some major reforms. At the Cabinet, Hanafin knows she is pushing an open door when it comes to education issues.

A brief scurry away from the conference season to congratulate UCD boss Hugh Brady on pushing through his restructuring plan.

Brady has confounded his critics in the Belfield canteen by delivering substantial reform within 15 months of taking office. He may not be the most avuncular figure, but there is no shortage of steel and determination.

Bad news for his critics. The reform plan is only the first phase of the Brady revolution. Did someone mention tougher performance reviews for academics?

Say what you like about the teacher conferences, but you have to admire the dedication of the 1,500-plus delegates who forego their Easter holidays.

But will this year be the last of the post-Easter sessions? Support for two- or three-day pre-Easter conferences is growing. Change may not come as early as next year, but it seems certain before too long.

E-mail us, in confidence, at teacherspet@irish-times.ie