Maria Corrigan (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for the very detailed response. Even with that, however, I am still concerned about the number of gaps that still exist. I would appreciate it if the Minister could consider them in the context of the new legislation due to be brought forward. Some of the gaps that come to mind immediately are in the case of unqualified personnel who clearly are not registered with the Teaching Council and therefore have not been subject to Garda vetting. It is of great concern that anyone who has not been subject to Garda vetting would have access to a classroom of children. In the appointment process for teachers, I accept, whether they are part-time or permanent, procedures are in place that will ensure Garda vetting. Any teacher qualified since September 2006 has to be registered with the teaching council and would have to undergo Garda vetting. In those instances, however, where it is necessary to employ a substitute teacher, he or she is not subject automatically to Garda vetting. I have concerns about this, given our experiences to date and the times in which we live. Formalising procedures and having authorised websites would make it much simpler for us to ensure people have been vetted. Obviously, vetting only works where someone has had a prior conviction. However, it at least allows us to take every possible step to ensure children's safety. I do not feel we are doing that currently.