Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 6 Mar 1997

Vol. 476 No. 1

Written Answers. - Special Teachers for Travellers.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

88 Mrs. O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education if she will review the case put forward by the board of management of a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath who are awaiting sanction for a permanent position of a special teacher for travellers; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this school satisfies all the requirements to convert the temporary position to a permanent one; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that the number of traveller children on the school roll almost qualifies the school for a second such teacher; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6452/97]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I am aware of the application from the school in question for sanction to appoint the special teacher for travellers on a permanent basis.

A special teacher for traveller children was sanctioned by my Department for the school in question on a temporary basis in September 1996. The teacher appointed to the post took up her position in November 1996.

Under the guidelines for the education of traveller children, special teachers for travellers are appointed initially in a provisional capacity. In order to establish the post on a permanent basis, it is required that an average enrolment of 14 pupils be attained for two consecutive quarters.

The position regarding enrolment of the class in question is due to be reviewed in April 1997.

The question of establishing the post on a permanent basis and the provision of a second special teacher for travellers will be considered as part of this review.