Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 23 Feb 2000

Vol. 515 No. 1

Written Answers. - Art Teachers.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

224 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the action, if any, the Department took in 1979 to assist unqualified art teachers who attempted to qualify through the Department's technical schools system in view of the fact it was aware that these examinations would officially end in July 1980 when the National Council for Educational Awards became established on a statutory basis and these teachers would be left in limbo as regards qualifying as art teachers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5549/00]

Minister for Education and Science

(Dr. Woods): In 1974 my Department issued a circular to the relevant school authorities advising them that it was proposed to discontinue the award of the art teachers' certificate based on the results of the technical schools examinations in art. In 1980 schools were informed that the award of qualifications in art would henceforth be a matter for the National Council for Educational Awards.

In 1981 my Department considered the question of providing a summer course to cater for persons with a minimum of three years' teaching experience who held the principles of teacher art qualification but who had a shortfall of one or more of the necessary TS examinations in art. It seems there was insufficient interest to justify holding the course at the time. However, the TS examinations in art continued to be held up until 1988.

My Department is currently re-examining the matter with a view to determining whether it is possible to address the shortfalls in the qualifications of any unqualified teachers currently employed so as to enable them to become qualified to compete for permanent posts. A decision in this regard will be taken as soon as possible.