Emmet Stagg
Question:205 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reconsider the termination of employment of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4917/03]
Written Answers. - Educational Disadvantage.
The home-school-community liaison scheme was established in 1990 and is a key element in my Department's strategy to combat educational disadvantage. The scheme seeks to address the discontinuity between the children's home and community experiences and the demands of schooling by maximising active participation of targeted pupils in the learning process and by promoting active co-operation and collaboration between home, school and community. A national co-ordinator oversees the day-to-day operation of the scheme and promotes its development.
Under this scheme co-ordinators are employed in schools in disadvantaged areas to work with school staff, parents and relevant community agencies in advancing the educational interests of children. At primary level applicants for co-ordinator positions must be fully qualified permanent primary teachers on the staff of schools in which the co-ordinators will serve. The successful applicant must have an appropriate profile among staff members and parents for work on this scheme and must be deployed to full-time liaison duties.
The person in question was selected to fill a home-school-community liaison co-ordinator position that is shared between two schools in Tallaght. Unfortunately, the person is unqualified for this position. I regret to inform the Deputy that this person's employment ceases on 28 February. The position can only be filled by a qualified person.