asked the Minister for Education the steps he is taking to end the impasse at Ballaghaderreen vocational school, County Mayo.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Mayo School.
8.
Mr. R. Burke
I am making arrangements to have a local inquiry under the Vocational Education Acts, 1930 to 1970, held in relation to the suspension by the County Roscommon Vocational Education Committee from the performance of duties of a member of the teaching staff of Ballaghaderreen vocational school. I must await the report of that inquiry before taking further action.
Surely the Minister will agree that a very long time has elapsed since this was brought to his attention. I am sure he will also agree that it is very much against the interests of the pupils that this should have been allowed to drag on. Surely he will also agree that, irrespective of the merits involved, a person who formerly had a very responsible position should not be left without any remuneration at all for a period now in excess of six months. Would the Minister give an undertaking now that this inquiry will be held forthwith?
Mr. R. Burke
I can give the Deputy an assurance that the delay of six months was not to be laid at the Department's door. The decision will be arrived at speedily. I appreciate the difficulties involved.