Ulick Burke (Galway East, Fine Gael)

Overlooking the situation in regard to principals and deputy principals, in many schools, particularly at second level, there is a huge void in regard to the work that was previously carried out by teachers, not only on a voluntary basis but in a series of areas. For example, a senior post holder always used to act as the co-ordinator for transition year or as examinations secretary. The problem with regard to the examinations secretary does not arise yet but the situation will be serious by February. Many more claims will be with the Department for the reappointment of staff into such posts.

I ask the Minister once more to reconsider the unworkable situation that has developed in many schools. The result is that many senior teachers have left the service altogether and many junior staff are incapable of doing the work that had been done over the years.

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