Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 726: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of home tutors listed on his Department's database; the rate of pay tutors receive under the home tuition scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28974/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The home tuition scheme provides funding to parents to provide education at home for children who, for a number of reasons such as chronic illness, are unable to attend school. The scheme was extended in recent years to facilitate tuition for children awaiting a suitable educational placement.

The Deputy may be further aware that the current Programme for Government commits to providing, over the term of this government, a central database of suitably trained personnel seeking employment as home tutors. My Department is considering what are the most appropriate arrangements and any related resource requirements for the implementation of this commitment.

The Deputy will appreciate that, as home tuition takes place outside of the normal school framework, there is need to ensure that tuition providers are appropriately qualified to give education to the children concerned. The usual requirement is a fully qualified teacher. However, other qualifications are acceptable depending on the individual needs of the child. A list of relevant qualifications may be sourced on my Department's website on www.education.ie. The current hourly rate of payment is €43.25 for a qualified primary teacher and €48.39 for a qualified post primary teacher. Tutors who are not qualified teachers are paid at a rate of €27.55 per hour.