asked the Minister for Education whether he has yet completed his inquiry into the case of the principal teacher at a County Cork school recently convicted and fined in the courts for assaulting a child pupil.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Conviction of Cork Teacher.
I presume the Deputy is referring to the case where a civil action for damages was taken against a teacher and in relation to which he addressed a previous question to me on the 25th March. I have not yet completed my inquiries into that case.
Could the Minister say how long it will take to complete the inquiries in view of the seriousness of the position and the unsuitability of this man to be in charge of children? Remember, the child is still under the care of this man and he has already beaten it on one occasion.
As soon as the matter came to my attention I directed an immediate inquiry. I have not yet got the result.
Could the Minister give me some idea as to when I should put another question?
Normally, it is the inspector who makes the inquiries. I am told that at the moment he is examining another matter and it is not considered desirable that he should be taken off specially to look into this matter. As soon as he has finished, he will hold an inquiry right away.