Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 30 Mar 2000

Vol. 517 No. 2

Written Answers. - Teaching Qualifications.

Denis Naughten

Question:

141 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to examine the disparity between pay scales for temporary primary school teachers in view of the fact teachers without the Irish qualifications are treated differently if they are substituting for maternity leave compared to those substituting due to a vacant position in a school; the plans, if any, he has to review this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9442/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

Since September 1998, all primary degree holders who also hold the higher diploma in education are paid as fully trained substitute teachers. In the current academic year those who also have a grade C or higher in honours Irish at the leaving certificate, or its equivalent, are paid at the trained rate when employed in a temporary capacity. These arrangements were introduced in order to address a temporary shortage of trained teachers at primary level.

Substitute teachers are generally employed for short periods on a casual basis to replace teachers who are on paid leave of absence. Temporary teachers tend to be employed for longer periods as replacements for teachers absent on unpaid leave such as career breaks, and accordingly it is deemed necessary for them to have a minimum proficiency in the Irish language.