Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 1 Jun 1999

Vol. 505 No. 6

Written Answers. - Teaching Qualifications.

Richard Bruton

Question:

256 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to Circular No. 11 of 1979 which reduced the technical school examination requirement for the recognition of art teachers; the reason this was not applied generally; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that there are teachers of art who have not been recognised by his Department who would have been entitled to recognition under the terms of the circular; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14332/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

The circular referred to by the Deputy introduced options for students who, in 1980, were taking the technical schools examination in art by assessment in lieu of examinations for the purposes of the award of the art teachers' certificate in accordance with the terms of Circular letter 23/74. I do not accept that this involved a reduction in the requirements in this regard.

In accordance with the terms of the PCW agreement on the pay and conditions of teachers, a committee with an agreed independent chairperson was established to determine suitable qualifications, within the framework set out in Circular letter 32/92, for appointment to permanent posts.

If the Deputy has a particular case in mind he may submit the details to the post-primary teachers section of my Department and the case will be referred to the committee for consideration.