Vol. 456 No. 2
15 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Education the steps, if any, she has taken to alleviate the concerns of the Teachers' Union of Ireland in relation to the question of substitution for colleagues attending training courses in new leaving certificate courses. [13485/95]
17 Ms Keogh asked the Minister for Education the steps, if any, she has taken to alleviate the concerns of the Teachers' Union of Ireland in relation to the question of substitution for colleagues attending training courses in new leaving certificate courses. [13486/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 17 together. The in-service schedule for the revised leaving certificate courses was put in place following consultation with the various management, union and parental interests. This schedule is designed so as to ensure that, as far as possible, the level of disruption to schools is minimised. I very much regret that the Teachers' Union of Ireland has refused to allow its members to provide substitute cover for colleagues attending in-service courses. As the Deputies will be aware, the cost of comprehensive substitution for all teachers attending the courses would be prohibitive. I have indicated that substitution is available where schools encounter particular difficulties.
