DEIS Data

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2017

Tuesday, 24 October 2017

Questions (126)

Willie O'Dea

Question:

126. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of teaching principals in DEIS schools in the Limerick city and county catchment area; the supports and resources that are available to free them up to attend external meetings such as child protection case conferences or Meitheal meetings in which their contribution is vital to enhancing an inter agency response to a vulnerable child; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44854/17]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

The number of teaching principals in DEIS schools in the Limerick city and county area is four.

Budget 2018 is building on measures in previous budgets to enhance school leadership. This Budget has made €0.4 million available to fund additional release days for teaching principals in primary schools, which allows them to undertake administrative, leadership and management functions within the school.

In relation to child protection conferences, substitute costs where necessary, are met by my Department in respect of teachers who attend such a conference during school hours. 

Circular 12/2016, which is available on the Department website, outlines the number of days that teaching principals may take as release time in a school year in order to assist them fulfilling their principal duties.