John Halligan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Yes. I intended to point out that I received views on the scheme from the Catholic Primary Schools Management Association, CPSMA, and the National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education, NABMSE, and the Irish National Teachers Organisation, INTO. A major effort was made to bring on board all the relevant bodies when we decided to review the scheme. The final decision was not made by the Department, which sought to ensure that all bodies associated with education would have a say on the matter. I suggest that Senator Gallagher seek a meeting with the Teacher Conciliation Council which is, as I stated, composed of representatives of various bodies. If I can facilitate such a meeting, I will be pleased to do so. If the Senator lets me know when he will be available, I will discuss the matter with the council. I am sure its representatives will meet the Senator.

The Senator made some relevant points. The difficulty facing me and the Department is that, having asked the relevant authorities, namely, the trade union movement, schools and school management, for recommendations and advice, we have little option but to accept their advice. The group we appointed reviewed the scheme and indicated it was satisfied with it. Nevertheless, I am sure it would be open to discuss the issue, particularly individual cases. As I indicated, teachers who are in the fifth year of the programme may have the exchange extended by another year. If the Senator wants me to arrange a meeting with the Teacher Conciliation Council, I will be delighted to do so.