Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 July 2018
98. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has established a scheme in respect of the shortage of substitute teachers; if he has considered the appointment on a part-time basis of previously retired staff in areas of significant staff shortage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29296/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the last two years we have hired 5,000 additional new teachers. It is the case that many teachers who would have been available to carry out substitute work are now gaining permanent and long term contracts.
I am aware of reports that some schools are experiencing difficulties in finding substitute teachers. In the last school year I suspended the limits that teachers on career break can work as substitutes. Schools were also reminded that, in considering career break applications, the needs of pupils should take precedence and they must take account of the availability of appropriate qualified replacement teachers.
It is already the case that retired teachers can be employed by schools. My Department informs all teachers retiring that in order to remain eligible for employment in a State funded teaching post for more than five consecutive days, a teacher must maintain his/her Teaching Council registration. The Teaching Council also reminds teachers, where a teacher indicates that he or she is considering leaving the register, that if they wish to continue to work as a teacher following retirement they should maintain registration.
I recently established the Teacher Supply Steering Group, which is chaired by the Secretary General of my Department. The Steering Group is considering the issues that impact on teacher supply, including: initial teacher education policy, provision, funding and support; data/research requirements; policies and arrangements for schools and teachers that impact on teacher mobility/supply; and promotion of the teaching profession. The Group will oversee a programme of actions according to strict timelines and clear deliverables. In undertaking its task, the Group is cognisant of the requirement that all persons wishing to teach in recognised schools must meet the professional registration standards and criteria set by the Teaching Council, which is the professional regulatory body for the teaching profession. The Steering Group last met on 29 June and I hope to be in a position to announce further measures in this area over coming months.
