Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

It is essential there is in place a robust system of regulation for the teaching profession. The Teaching Council's role is key to ensuring the development and implementation of standards for teachers' conduct and performance, which complements the work of initial and continuing teacher training. Much progress has been made by the council, as reports placed before the House illustrate.

The annual registration fee of €90 is significantly lower than registration fees charged by many other professional regulatory bodies. Moreover, tax relief may be sought from the Revenue Commissioners with regard to the fee. The funding advanced to the council prior to 2008 was to enable it to establish and run its operations and there are no plans to recoup this funding. When the remaining sections of the legislation are commenced, the council's income will be more fully utilised. In view of the importance of having a strong regulator for the teaching profession, I do not have any intention of disbanding the Teaching Council.

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