John Bruton
Ceist:151 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education if she gives approval as required by section 23 (2) of the Vocational Education Act, 1930.
Written Answers. - VEC Appointments.
John Bruton
Ceist:152 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education whether the allocation, number, qualifications and appointment of teachers by vocational education committees is subject to her prior approval; when, and the way in which this approval is given; and whether she has delegated this power of approval to the vocational education committees' selection boards.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 151 and 152 together. Section 23 (2) of the Vocational Education Act, 1930, provides that:
The numbers, qualifications, salaries or remuneration, and appointment of all officers shall be subject to the approval of the Minister.
Teachers are regarded as officers under the Act.
I exercise my statutory power in accordance with the terms of section 23 (2) of the Vocational Education Act, 1930. Each vocational education committee is notified in writing of its approved teacher allocation expressed in whole-time teacher equivalent units well in advance of the commencement of the school year.
Where a vocational education committee proposes to make a teacher appointment in a whole-time capacity or under an "Eligible part-time Teacher" contract, the question of approval arises separately for the creation of the post and for the appointment. In general, approval will be given provided that my Department is satisfied as to the need for such an appointment, that the proposed conditions of service are suitable, that the resources of the committee are such as to enable them to maintain the appointment, that the person holds the necessary qualifications as specified in the advertisement of the post and that health and character requirements have been met.
The statutory power of approval as conferred on me by section 23 (2) of the Vocational Education Act, 1930, has not been delegated to selection boards appointed by vocational education committees.