Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)
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496. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason there is no derogation for Gaeilge at primary school level in relation to the professional development service for teachers secondees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32775/15]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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Professional development courses for teachers are designed and delivered by teachers who are seconded to a number of support services in accordance with published policies and procedures. A limited alleviation of the application of the five year limit has been agreed to allow secondees to serve for a further limited period in my Department's support services. It is Department policy to apply alleviations to meet the business needs of each of the services, for example, to provide for continuity in management, planning and leadership and retention of expertise. Alleviations only arise where the business needs of the service require it and this position is reviewed annually.

My Department's support services have engaged in succession planning as a key strategy in ensuring continued support for teachers and school leaders in implementing national education policy priorities and continuing professional development.

The implementation of this policy is a matter for the services concerned and the relevant section of my Department.