asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state the present scales of remuneration of the eleven lay teachers employed in seven rural schools of domestic science; whether he is aware that these teachers are required to have the same qualifications as domestic science teachers in vocational or secondary schools, whereas their remuneration is much less; and if he will take steps immediately to improve the remuneration position of these teachers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Remuneration of Domestic Science Teachers.
23.
The salary scale applicable to the lay teachers employed at the seven rural schools of domestic economy is £265 a year, or £259 for teachers under 21 years of age, by 15 annual increments to £470 a year. In addition, free board and lodging are provided.
There are thirteen lay teachers employed at these schools, nine of whom are teachers in poultry-keeping and buttermaking and four of whom are teachers of domestic economy subjects. The teachers of poultry-keeping and buttermaking have been trained at the Munster Institute and possess qualifications recognised by the Minister for Agriculture. Of the four teachers of domestic economy subjects two have been trained at the Munster Institute while two have been trained at a Training School of Domestic Science recognised by the Department of Education.
I am aware that the salary scales for domestic science teachers employed in vocational or secondary schools are higher than those applicable to the teachers at the rural domestic economy schools. The question of the remuneration of the latter category of teachers is at present under consideration.