Vol. 535 No. 2
110 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide information on the level of teacher shortages at second level; the particular subjects which are most affected; the number of vacancies which currently exist; and the steps which he is taking to deal with this problem. [12311/01]
The analysis of supply of and demand for second level teachers is complex. Previous analyses indicate that regional and subject variations combine to distort the national picture. Schools in certain locations report more difficulties in recruitment while specific subjects may pose particular difficulties. These findings are confirmed by last year's ASTI survey entitled Survey of School Principals on Difficulties recruiting Qualified Teachers in Second Level Schools. The position is further complicated by the fact that vacancies in second level schools usually require specific subject combinations.
While principals have reported difficulties in recruitment in certain areas, my Department is not aware of any second level school that has not filled its approved teacher allocation for the current year.
In response to concerns regarding the adequacy of supply and following analysis of various factors, the intake quota to the higher diploma in education was increased from 800 in 1997-98 to 1,000 in 1999/00, representing an increase of 25% in two years. The quota of 1,000 places also applied this year and will apply again for the coming academic year.
Previous analyses undertaken for my Department showed that the extent of shortages reported by school principals varied by subject. A survey of principals who recruited for the 1996-97 school year found that reported shortages were greatest in Irish, 34% of respondents who recruited, followed by home economics at 13% and religion at 8%. The more recent ASTI survey also found variations between subjects with principals reporting most difficulties in respect of Irish at 35%, French at 17% and home economics at 15%.
I can assure the Deputy that the position on supply and demand for second level teachers has been, and will remain, the subject of ongoing review by my Department in consultation with the Higher Education Authority and the universities.
