Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 5 Nov 1992

Vol. 424 No. 10

Ceisteanna — Questions. Written Answers. - Appointment of Teachers.

Roger T. Garland

Question:

82 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Education whether the stated age limits regarding appointments to vocational educational colleges applies in view of the fact that the appointments of candidates outside those limits has been sanctioned; if so, if he will ensure that such limits are no longer stated in advertisements because potential applicants would naturally assume that they have no chance of appointment if they were outside the stated limits; if the personnel in the vocational education committees processing job applications where an age limit has been specified do in fact ignore the age factor in selecting candidates for interviews and in choosing a candidate from those interviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mr. S. Brennan)

As stated in my reply to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 204 and 205 of 27 October 1992 Memorandum V7 which governs the appointment of teachers throughout the vocational sector specifies age limits for appointment. There is provision for me, as Minister, however to approve the appointment of a person whose age is outside these limits.

My Department are at present reviewing the provisions of Memorandum V7 in regard to age limits for appointment and will be communicating with vocational education committees in the matter as soon as possible.

In so far as the selection of candidates for teaching posts is concerned vocational education committees, are aware of the provision for exceptions to existing age limits and would, therefore, be free to interview and propose candidates under the terms of that provision.