asked the Minister for Education if he has any plans for improving the conditions of service of untrained teachers and for giving them the opportunity of being recognised as qualified.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Untrained Teachers.
48.
I propose to arrange for the holding of a series of summer courses for selected untrained national teachers, with a view to affording them the opportunity of obtaining status as trained teachers. The first of these courses will commence in July next.
Could the Minister tell me if there will be any age limit?
I am afraid I cannot answer that.
53.
They must be under 53 years of age.
Does the Minister agree 53 is correct?
It seems to be reasonable.
In view of the fact that untrained teachers have been demanding an improvement in their position over many years, most of them will now be over the age limit of 53, and I would ask the Minister to give them sympathetic consideration by extending the age limit another five years.
I am sure serious consideration was given to the fixing of an age limit, but I will convey the Deputy's point of view to the Minister.
Does this apply only to untrained teachers in national schools or does it apply to teachers unqualified for establishment in technical schools as well?
I think it applies only to national schools.
Primary teachers.