Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 February 2026
139. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will review the case of a person (details supplied); the status of their PME scheme application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13163/26]
View answerThis Government is committed to ensuring that every child has a positive school experience, with access to qualified and engaged teachers who are dedicated to supporting their learning.
A range of measures have been introduced to support schools in their recruitment efforts. One such measure is the PME Fee Refund Scheme. Over 1,800 applications were received and over 1,500 teachers have been paid to date. The PME Fee Refund Scheme has now closed, and no further applications are being considered.
My Department published Circular 0069/2024 Professional Master of Education (PME) Fee Refund Scheme in September 2024. This circular provides the eligibility criteria and application process for the scheme. The circular also states that applicants must be newly qualified teachers that have successfully completed a PME programme in 2024 calendar year.
The Department verified with the Teaching Council which applicants completed a PME in 2024. To qualify, applicants must have finished their PME and been added to the Register of Teachers in 2024.
My Department has contacted the person referred to in the question in relation to their application and informed them of both the outcome of, and of a review, of their application.
