Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 267: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if he will review his decision to withdraw substitution cover from schools in 2009; if his attention has been drawn to the implications of this proposal for children, parents and teachers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40113/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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Notwithstanding the increase of €302 million in the Education Budget for 2009, in making the announcement of the Budget measures for education, I stressed that tough choices had to be made in meeting the needs of the education sector in these difficult times. The resources available to the Department have meant that these choices have been very challenging. The decision made to suspend substitution cover for uncertified sick leave at primary and second level and official school business in second level schools was a difficult one.

Substitution will continue to be provided for all other categories of absences currently available including maternity leave and certified sick leave. The existing arrangements will continue to apply for the supervision/substitution scheme with teachers continuing to be paid an annual payment in addition to salary for participation in the scheme.

As we manage through this difficult period I am asking teachers in all schools to co-operate fully with school managers in coping with this change in the interest of students. I am also requesting the school managerial bodies to ensure that the supervision/substitution scheme is operated with maximum effectiveness in all schools.