Seymour Crawford
Question:319 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Education the plans, if any, she has to retain and upgrade the Monaghan teacher training centre on a full time basis for the in-service training of Monaghan teachers. [2969/94]
Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - Monaghan Teacher Training.
My Department recently issued a discussion paper outlining proposals on the future organisation of a national network of education centres. It was clearly stated in the document that the proposals had not been adopted as official policy and that the discussion paper was being presented for consideration and feedback, in order to inform the debate on the development of an overall framework for in-career development.
The discussion paper envisaged the provision of a network of 18 full-time centres throughout the country, which would henceforth be known as Main Centres. It also included proposals for the provision of Associate Centres on a part-time basis, based on an assessment by the Main Centre of the needs in the region.
In the discussion paper, Monaghan is not proposed as a full-time centre. This is for geographical reasons, and in no way denies that excellent work is being done in the centre.
My Department has recently attended the AGM of the Association of Teacher Centres in Ireland to hear the feedback on the discussion paper and will shortly be engaging in discussions with teacher and management interests on the issue. No decisions will be made until the consultation process has been completed.