Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 May 2026
84. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware of the practice of schools terminating teachers contracts just as they are about to become eligible for a contract of indefinite duration; the actions her Department undertaking to reduce this practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35469/26]
View answerThe recruitment and appointment of teachers to fill teaching posts is a matter for the individual school authority, subject to procedures agreed under Section 24(3) of the Education Act 1998 (as amended by the Education (Amendment) Act 2012).
Department Circulars 20/2026 (Primary) and 21/2026 (Post Primary) set out the criteria for the award of a CID.
As set out in the circulars, all first fixed-term contracts must be terminated at the end of the first school year. If the employment is continuing for the following year, it must be automatically re-advertised by the employer and a new recruitment process undertaken for the filling of the post for the second year. Therefore, the employer cannot provide a CID or a new fixed term contract to any teacher unless it advertises and interviews first. The school/ETB must also have a viable post available.
An award of a CID can be made where the criteria set out in the circular have been satisfied.
