Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

As I indicated, many other sectors have a moratorium. We are in a position to replace teachers, including some posts of responsibility, where there is a need for alleviation. A number of schools lost most of their post holders as a consequence of retirements and we had to bring in at least a base where that work needed to be done. Since 2009, there has been a reduction in the number of posts but some 50% of teachers still hold posts of responsibility.

With regard to the second part of the alleviation, consideration must be given arising from the schools opening in September. Between July and September, a situation arose whereby there was a minor alleviation. In September, I gave an undertaking that we would review the situation, in the advent of particular circumstances, so that there might be some flexibility, although it would be very limited. The harsh reality is that we cannot continue to have a situation where 50% of the entire teaching community hold posts of responsibility. The minor alleviation was to address the concerns the Deputy has raised.

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