The eligible part-time teachers scheme was approved by my Department in 1989 following discussions with management and unions on Labour Court recommendations. Under this scheme eligible part-time teachers are employed on an annual contract. This contract is renewable subject to satisfactory performance and the continued need for the particular teaching service provided by the part-time teacher. Teachers on eligible part-time teacher contracts have pro-rata pay and conditions with permanent teachers.
Any adjustments to the current agreement governing eligible part-time teachers are a matter for negotiation and agreement between the parties concerned and have to be considered under the relevant terms of the Programme for Competitiveness and Work— PCW. The Programme for Competitiveness and Work provides for discussions with management and teacher interests with a view to agreeing a ceiling on the percentage of part-time teaching posts at post-primary and third level. This issue is being addressed in ongoing discussions between management and teacher interests. The Deputy will appreciate that the eventual outcome of these negotiations will have a direct impact on the number of whole-time permanent posts in schools and colleges.
The sanctioning of permanent whole-time posts for part-time teachers or an across the board enhancement of their hours, as suggested by the Deputy, would inevitably result in schools and colleges having a teaching resource in excess of actual requirements. There are agreed procedures for filling permanent whole-time teaching posts. Part-time teachers who have been employed under the terms of the eligible part-time teachers scheme may apply for any advertised post in the normal way.
