I assume the Deputy's question relates to leave of absence for primary school teachers. The position is that paid leave of absence is sanctioned by my Department for primary teachers, subject to board of management approval, for a number of specific purposes. These purposes do not at present include paid leave to attend their child's Confirmation.
National teachers may qualify for extra personal vacation (EPV), by attending approved in-service training courses, which usually take place during the summer vacation. Teachers may qualify for up to a maximum of five EPV days in any one year, the number of days being determined by the number of days' attendance at a course. EPV earned by teachers must be taken during the school year following the course, otherwise it is forfeit. The permission of the board of management is required before a teacher can take any of the EPV days earned. The EVP days may be taken as single days, or in any group of days subject to the maximum five days referred to previousyly.
Secondary and Community and Comprehensive teachers are allowed up to five days' paid leave for personal reasons subject to the approval of the school authorities.
Teachers employed by vocational education committees may, in exceptional circumstances, be paid salary in respect of occasional brief absences owing to reasonable causes and subject to the approval of the committee and the sanction of the Minister. Special leave of absence with pay is also allowed on marriage or on the death of a near relative or through illness.
I have a great deal more detail in my brief.