Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 1262: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of staff in her Department currently on leave undertaking full-time study paid for by her Department; the number undertaking part-time or evening study paid for by her Department; the subject areas these persons are studying; the qualifications which are expected to be achieved; her plans to make best use of those qualifications upon completion of the study period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1106/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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There are currently two members of staff on leave undertaking full-time study paid for by my Department. The number of staff undertaking part-time or evening study in the 2005-06 academic year that will be refunded by my Department is 72.

My Department recognises the importance of training and developing its staff and seeks to promote a learning and development culture within the organisation. Continuous learning is central to enhanced performance. Staff are encouraged to avail of self-learning opportunities, including pursuit of third level qualifications in their own time. My Department operates a refund of course and examination fees scheme under Department of Finance guidelines, circular 21/78, and has, to date, been in a position to refund 100% of the costs of course and examination fees for approved courses.

The subject areas being studied and the qualifications which are expected to be achieved are shown in the attached table. Training and development is seen as a key element of the performance management and development system, PMDS. Staff are supported in acquiring the skills and competencies needed to perform to a high standard and meet their objectives, including career expectations.

As well as the refund of fees scheme, my Department has a pilot scheme in place for the advance payment of fees for postgraduate studies undertaken in the officer's own time and of particular relevance to the Department, for example, a master's degree in educational disadvantage, a master of science in educational matters, a doctorate in special education, or a doctorate in educational psychology.

Under the terms of the refund of fees scheme and the pilot scheme for advance payment of fees, staff undertake in writing to refund the payment in the event of leaving the public service before completing one year's service in respect of each academic year or course period for which a payment has been made.