Vol. 486 No. 1
869 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of substitute days, given on a month by month basis, worked in primary schools during the 1996-97 and to date during the 1997-98 school years; the number of days worked by persons for each month who are not recognised as qualified primary teachers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1443/98]
The data requested by the Deputy is being compiled from records within my Department and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
The Deputy will be pleased to note that I have recently extended the supply panel scheme. The supply panel is designed to assist boards of management obtain the services of qualified primary teachers to provide mainly short-term cover for teachers absent on certified sick leave. Earlier this year the scheme was extended by the provision of a further 30 teachers employed in 11 schools throughout the country. This measure will contribute significantly to the availability of trained teachers to provide substitute cover.
