Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 Apr 2000

Vol. 518 No. 4

Written Answers. - School Staffing.

John V. Farrelly

Question:

60 Mr. Farrelly asked the Minister for Education and Science if the system of posts of responsibility for teaching staff has been withdrawn because it contravenes equality legalisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8766/00]

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

120 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the promotions system for teachers; the reforms, if any, he plans for the promotions system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11729/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods):

I propose to take Questions Nos. 60 and 120 together.

There are some 24,000 promotion posts, including principal posts, in our primary and second level schools. This number of promotion posts provides significant promotion opportunities for teachers.

The filling of promotion posts in schools is primarily a matter for the management authority of each school in accordance with appointment procedures agreed between the managerial authorities, teacher unions and my Department.

Concerns have been raised that certain elements of those procedures that relate to seniority for promotion purposes may be indirectly discriminatory on gender grounds under the terms of the Employment Equality Act, 1998. Arising from those concerns I understand that management authorities have not proceeded with the filling of certain promotion posts.

My Department has sought legal advice from the Office of the Attorney General's in relation to these concerns and my Department is in discussion with that office on the complex issues involved. While the Employment Equality Act is largely untested law, my objective is to ensure that as far as practicable there is in place a system of promotion which conforms with the spirit and letter of the Act. It is further my intention that immediate discussions will take place with the managerial bodies and teacher unions when the advice of the the Attorney General's office is available in order to reach agreement on any changes that may be required in procedures.