Written answers

Thursday, 2 July 2009

Department of Education and Science

School Staffing

Photo of Brian HayesBrian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 170: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the steps he will take to bring forward procedures to help school boards of management to deal with individual teachers who are under performing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26841/09]

Photo of Batt O'KeeffeBatt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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As part of the modernisation agenda for teachers under the Social Partnership Agreement Towards 2016 it was agreed to address the issue of difficulties in relation to teacher performance. It was recognised that while the vast majority of teachers fulfil their teaching function and professional duties adequately and well, there are, as in all professions, a small number of under performing personnel in schools.

In that context discussions commenced under the auspices of the Teachers Conciliation Council to review and revise existing procedures for the suspension and dismissal of teachers. The Teachers Conciliation Council is the recognised forum for dealing with matters relating to pay and conditions of service of teachers. The parties to the forum include representatives of the managerial authorities of schools, the teacher unions and the Departments of Education and Science and Finance.

The discussions comprehend the arrangements that will apply in the case of both teachers and school principals. Revised procedures for the suspension and dismissal of teachers have been agreed. One of the issues considered was the provision of assistance, where appropriate, to teachers who are experiencing professional difficulties as provided for in the Towards 2016 agreement. Revised procedures are being brought to finality for principals having regard to the particular issues relevant to that grade.

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