Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 13 May 1997

Vol. 479 No. 2

Written Answers. - Departmental Correspondence.

Declan Bree

Question:

224 Mr. Bree asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) in County Sligo received a letter from her Department dated 14 March 1997, stating that the Department was not prepared to appoint her as an exam supervisor in future, if her Department is prepared to explain the reason for this significant decision to this person; if persons are normally disqualified by her Department from taking up such positions without being provided with a full explanation, including details of any allegations which might have been made regarding their work, which would provide an opportunity for them to defend themselves; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12812/97]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The person referred to by the Deputy was notified on 14 March 1997 that in the event that she applied in the future for a post as superintendent at the certificate examinations, my Department would not be prepared to appoint her.

In accordance with the standard procedures which it follows in these matters, my Department wrote to the person concerned on 31 January 1997 and provided her with details of the matter which was of concern which related to her appointment as a superintendent at the 1996 certificate examinations.

The letter also invited her to provide any response she wished to offer in relation to the issue raised before the Department considered the matter further.

The person concerned responded by letter on 5 February 1996. The response which she provided was considered before a decision was taken not to appoint her as a superintendent.

My Department is prepared at all times to explain the position again to the person concerned if she so wishes.