Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 4 Nov 1999

Vol. 510 No. 2

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

135 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if, further to Parliamentary Question No. 364 of 19 October 1999, his attention has been drawn to the fact that the post of resource teacher has not been filled due to its temporary status; if he will designate the post on an ex-quota basis in order to make it attractive to potential applicants and to ensure continuity for the pupils; if he will grant recognition to the qualifications of a person who has applied for the post, whom the school management deems eminently suitable but where difficulties arise due to qualifications; and the action, if any, he will take to resolve this matter in order that the special needs pupils of this school will be properly catered for. [22091/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers. The resource teacher post in question is a full time permanent post. The role of the resource teacher is to provide special additional educational support to an identified group of children who have special educational needs. As such, the post holder is required to be a fully qualified primary teacher.

I understand that the school in question has been in telephone contact with my Department regarding the possible appointment of a particular individual to fill the post in question. In accordance with normal practice, the school has been requested to submit written details of the educational qualifications of the person in question to my Department.

A decision on the eligibility of the person in question to fill the post will be made when these details are received.