I propose to take Questions Nos. 140 and 148 together.
At second-level, a voluntary redeployment scheme has operated on a pilot basis in specific regions for a number of years as part of the redeployment process of surplus teachers. Permanent teachers employed in these regions were given an opportunity to volunteer for a transfer to other areas if such a transfer would free up a vacancy that would facilitate the redeployment of a surplus permanent teacher in the region. The regions involved are reviewed annually and agreed with Education Partners. The criteria used for the allocation of teachers to primary and post-primary schools, including redeployment arrangements, are published annually.
Further employment opportunities have been provided in individual schools by the provision of additional 1000 post primary teaching posts to post primary schools to assist with the implementation of important public health measures for the safe and sustainable reopening of schools.