Ms Andrea Feeney:

We do not have numbers but, across subjects, the supply shortages are reflective of where there are pinch points. Home economics and the marking of the practical examinations have been challenging for a number of years, particularly at junior cycle. The subjects in which marking is ongoing at the moment at junior cycle are not those subjects. We have marking happening currently in English and in religious education. They are the two subjects that are continuing to be marked and there are small amounts being marked in others as well. The challenge has been trying to manage the resources and the numbers we have and assigning the work in order that we can get it completed within the timeline. I am delighted to hear the Deputy corrected for us previously in the subjects of history and geography, which are Ms Sheridan's background, and found it to be very positive work. We would like to reflect those benefits to teachers, get them in from an early stage in their career and retain them in the work. Their work is vital to us and to their students. In terms of making a contribution to society and the education system as a whole, it is vital work that is done by thousands of teachers each year.