asked the Minister for Education how he intends to implement the provision in the White Paper on Educational Development to make it compulsory for every second-level teacher to take an oral test to show that he has reached a certain competency in regard to the teaching of Irish before he will be eligible for a permanent post or a post as a registered teacher in second-level schools, especially with regard to teachers who have qualified in technical subjects, viz: science, physics, biology: the consultations that have taken place with teacher interests in this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Oral Irish Test.
20.
As indicated in the White Paper, my Department have rationalised the position in regard to Irish qualifications of teachers in relation to new appointments in the different categories of second-level schools. Circular Letter No. 27/80, issued following consultation with the appropriate managerial and teaching organisations, outlines the revised arrangements for Class III vocational teachers. A copy of Circular Letter No. 27/80 is, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, being circulated with the Official Report.
In accordance with the requirements of the regulations for the register of secondary teachers, an applicant for registration must pass an oral test in the Irish language. Teachers in community and comprehensive schools are required to pass a test in oral Irish as a condition of permanent appointment.
I have read the Minister's discussion document or what could more properly be described as a green paper on educational development. The Minister states in it quite clearly that for eligibility for permanent appointment to posts in all second-level schools a certain competency in regard to the teaching of Irish is necessary. Is he aware that this will create quite a problem for many teachers of technical subjects such as science, physics and biology? Is he satisfied that the implementation of his proposal in the paper on educational development will not reduce the availability of such teachers for permanent appointment?
No, I do not think so. I should like to adhere to the basic principle. I can assure the Deputy that if there is any problem with regard to teachers of specific subjects such as science, physics and biology, I will see to it that courses are made available for those teachers to enable them to qualify.
In relation to permanent appointment to vocational schools the acceptable qualification is the Ceard-Teastas Gaeilge. Does the Minister intend the same standard in respect of Irish speaking ability to apply to scientific courses?
The rules as laid down will be adhered to. If there are any difficulties my Department will be fully equipped and funded to get over those difficulties by means of any courses which are necessary.
Does the Minister accept that the standard of the Ceard-Teastas Gaeilge is one he would apply to the requirement for permanent appointment to secondary schools for the teaching of these technical type subjects?
If that is the interpretation of the rule — and I think it is — the answer is yes.
This will cause many problems.
Níl fadhb ann ach chun a bheith fuascailte.