The vacancy that exists in Galway is one of a number of current vacancies to be filled. In advance of a decision on the filling of these vacancies, my Department is carrying out an assessment of the role of the visiting teacher service in the context of the level and range of teacher supports now being provided for children with special educational needs. Account is also being taken of the evolving legislative and structural environment in which the service is expected to operate. I expect that the review will be completed in the near future. A decision on the filling of vacancies will be based on the outcome of the review.