As the Deputy is aware, a number of initiatives have been introduced to alleviate the temporary shortage of trained teachers.
Since September 1998, all primary degree holders who hold the higher diploma in education are paid as fully trained substitute teachers, and in the current academic year those with grade C in higher level Irish in the Leaving Certificate are paid at the trained rate when employed in a temporary capacity.
Primary degree holders who hold the higher diploma in education but do not possess Grade C in Higher Level Irish will, in the case of those appointed after 1 April 2000, be paid as trained teachers for a period of fourteen weeks after the date of appointment.
Persons who hold a primary degree may apply for admission to a post graduate course conducted by the primary teacher training colleges. These courses are conducted when it is deemed necessary to increase the supply of qualified primary teachers and there are currently two courses being conducted. The courses, which are generally of eighteen months duration, enable a primary degree holder become fully qualified for appointment in a primary school.
