Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 167: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if visiting teachers for Travellers will continue to be direct employees of his Department; and if the VTST will retain their existing primary teacher terms and conditions. [26825/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I refer to my response on this issue to the Deputy on 23rd June 2009. As previously outlined, the Board of the NEWB has been mandated to make arrangements for its new extended remit and have commenced this work with an inclusive, structured and planned approach engaging with all relevant parties. Consultation is currently under way, involving all the individual services, to develop an appropriate management structure and reporting arrangements for the new service to commence from 1st September 2009. My Department will assist with this process to ensure successful transition to full integration. Operational issues will be addressed during this consultation and development phase and will involve engagement with the services and other relevant stakeholders as required. The ongoing consultation will address issues including reporting arrangements and any concerns relating to employment terms and conditions.

Future changes, if any, to the employment arrangements of Visiting Teachers for Travellers will be the subject of discussions with unions representing the affected teachers.