asked the Minister for Education whether it is a condition of the model lease, deed of trust or associated regulations for community schools that chaplains be employed as ex-quota or within quota within such community schools; when, if applicable, this condition was introduced; those who appoint such chaplains and the selection criteria which applies; and the number of chaplains in receipt of public funding who are attached to community schools.
Written Answers. - Community School Chaplains.
253.
The Model Lease for Community Schools provides that:
The Board of Management will appoint a Chaplain nominated by the competent Religious Authority who shall be employed outside the normal quota of the school. He shall be a fulltime member of the staff and shall be paid a salary equivalent to that of a teacher in the school.
This condition was introduced when the first community schools were set up in 1972. At present there are 45 chaplains attached to community schools who are in receipt of salary payments from public funds.