Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue. He is right that there are far too many Irish teachers abroad. We would much rather, as would a lot of them, that they were back here teaching. I know this is a huge priority for the Minister, Deputy McEntee. The Deputy will be aware that the Minister made a number of announcements on policy decisions in this regard over the Easter period. They include making it easier for people to get permanent contracts, but also making it easier for teachers to return. If the Deputy wants to send that letter to me, the Minister, or both of us, I will ask her to take on board the points he is making.

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