asked the Minister for Education the steps she proposes to take to ensure reciprocity in the transfer of teachers between the Republic and Northern Ireland on grounds of merit; whether teachers transferring from the Republic to Northern Ireland are immediately eligible for any post of responsibility on grounds of merit alone; and if so, the steps she proposes to take in order to ensure reciprocity in this matter.
Written Answers. - Transfer of Teachers to Northern Ireland.
180.
On 21 December 1988 the Council of the European Communities adopted a Directive on a general system for the recognition of higher education diplomas awarded on completion of professional education and training of at least three years duration. This Directive must be implemented by all member states before 4 January 1991. The Directive will apply to the teaching profession and I am confident that when it is implemented by the UK authorities teachers trained here will be eligible for recognition in Northern Ireland. I could not comment on the question of immediate eligibility for appointment to posts of responsibility as I am not familiar with the arrangements with regard to length of service and qualifications for appointment to such posts.