Vol. 509 No. 6
552 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to replace the visiting teacher for the deaf in the Kilkenny area in view of the retirement of the existing teacher; if he will ensure that the replacement teacher is appointed as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21093/99]
The visiting teacher in the area referred to by the Deputy retired with effect from 31 August 1999. The visiting teacher service in this area provides for pupils with hearing impairment and some Down's Syndrome pupils. I understand that a visiting teacher from another area has opted to transfer to the vacant post. However, arrangements will have to be made to fill the subsequent vacancy.
In the interim, my Department recently advertised in order to fill, on a temporary basis, the post for the area referred to by the Deputy. A number of applications have been received and these are currently being considered. In the event that a suitable candidate is found, it is proposed to fill the post immediately, in a temporary capacity.
