Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 484: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25107/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the recognition of teacher qualifications is now a matter for the Teaching Council, the body with responsibility for establishing and maintaining standards in the teaching profession.

The position in relation to the matter raised by the Deputy is that any person who was on a career break prior to, or at the time of, establishment of the Teaching Council was recognised as a teacher (by the DES or by a VEC under a Circular Letter). These persons will continue to meet the qualifications requirements for registration with the Teaching Council. A provision to this effect has been included in each of the Teaching Council's 2009 Registration Regulations.

However, all such teachers now seeking registration under 31(5) of the Teaching Council Act, 2001 must meet the Evidence of Character (including Garda Vetting) and Proof of Identity requirements that have been set by the Council.