asked the Minister for Education whether suitable teaching service in Tanganyika will be recognised for incremental salary purposes in respect of secondary teachers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Recognition of Teaching Service.
43.
I would be prepared to consider favourably applications for incremental credit in respect of suitable teaching service in schools in Tanganyika corresponding to recognised secondary schools here.
44.
asked the Minister for Education if he is now prepared to recognise suitable teaching service in Northern Ireland as qualifying for incremental salary payable by his Department; if so, on what terms; and, if not, why.
I have already announced that this is a matter to which I hope to be in a position to give favourable consideration. My consideration of it is nearing completion and I expect to be in a position to make an announcement in regard to it shortly.
45.
asked the Minister for Education if he will state the undeveloped countries in respect of which suitable teaching service is recognised for incremental salary payable to secondary teachers on returning to Ireland; and if it is proposed to extend the number of such countries.
Applications for incremental credit in respect of suitable teaching service in Nigeria, Ghana, Sierre Leone, The Gambia, Algeria and Morocco have been received and approved by my Department. I would be prepared to approve, also applications in respect of such services given in other developing countries on the Continent of Africa.
Apart from developing countries, if we are to have an expansion of secondary education here and there are teachers available of Irish nationality at present in countries such as Great Britain and elsewhere who are willing to come home to help to expand the secondary education here, will the Minister not consider giving them incremental recognition?
I have indicated that the position in respect of Northern Ireland is under consideration.
There are large numbers of such teachers at present engaged in countries other than developing countries and Northern Ireland. Perhaps the Minister will bring these to the attention of the Minister for Education if the Government are serious in their desire to expand secondary education facilities at home?
There is no question about the seriousness of the Government's intention in this respect. I suggest that the Leader of the Opposition will have an opportunity of discussing the matter more fully on the Minister's Estimate.
In the meantime, perhaps these views will be conveyed to the Minister?
If recognition is granted, could it be made retrospective?
I imagine, by the nature of the case, it would almost have to be retrospective.