Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I understand that approximately 4,500 middle management positions, including AP1 and AP2 posts, were lost under the moratorium. Approximately 1,300 of these positions have been restored. There has been no further advance since 2017. This issue needs to be considered. I have spoken about the paper overload for principals. I think there is a particular burden for teaching principals. I know that some efforts have been made in this regard. It has been suggested that a supply panel is needed. The payment of commercial rates by schools, which are technically charities, is another issue that has been raised with me. I do not know whether this can be looked at. Another point occurs to me when I think about the need to move away from all the paperwork and onto other issues. Like the Minister, I have taught at second level. The issues that have always presented at second level, including anxiety, depression, anger and violence, are now presenting among much younger pupils. That is a major challenge for many primary schools. I suggest that middle management roles, rather than being focused on policies and plans, need to be directed towards dealing with the real issues that are evident in primary schools. When an issue arises in a school, it is dealt with. Those involved will not go up to the office to read the policy before dealing with the issue.

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