asked the Minister for Education if she will indicate in relation to the guidance counselling service in second level schools (a) the number of guidance counsellor posts approved in the current school year, by category and school (b) the conditions for the approval of such posts (c) the conditions for appointment to such posts and (d) her plans for the development and extension of this service.
Written Answers. - Schools Guidance Counselling Service.
70.
The information is as follows:—
(a) The number of ex-quota guidance teacher posts approved by my Department in the current school year is as follows: secondary schools, 193; community and comprehensive schools, 49; vocational schools, 51.
(b) Post-primary schools with 500 pupils or more may appoint an ex-quota guidance teacher.
(c) The conditions for appointment to such posts are (1) that the teacher satisfies the qualification requirements for the category of school involved and (2) that the teacher holds an acceptable qualification in guidance.
(d) My commitment to the guidance service is evidenced by the fact that on taking up office I rescinded the previous Administration's decision to bring all guidance posts within quota in all post-primary schools.