Written Answers Nos. 407-426
407. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on the implementation of the proposed timebound provision for transferring teachers from route 3 to route 1 of the Teaching Council register; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57079/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Teaching Council registers teachers under the Teaching Council Act 2001-2015 and in line with the Teaching Council Registration Regulations, 2025. As set out in the Schedule of the Regulations, the Council registers teachers under five routes of registration: Route 1 - Primary, Route 2 - Post-primary, Route 3 - Further Education, Route 4 - Other and Route 5 - Student Teacher. The qualification requirements for each route are set down in the Schedule.
Under the Teaching Council Acts 2001-2015 the Teaching Council is the body with the statutory authority and responsibility for the regulation of the teaching profession in Ireland including the registration of teachers in the State.
The Teaching Council is the regulator of the teaching profession in Ireland. Its role is to protect the public by promoting and regulating professional standards in teaching. This is carried out through the statutory registration of teachers, ensuring a highly qualified teaching profession, whose members meet and uphold high standards of professional competence and conduct.
There is no mechanism whereby a teacher can transfer route with the Teaching Council. The Council may suggest another route to the route being applied for if that seems to align with the qualifications, or a teacher may apply for a different route if they gain additional qualifications. Teachers can also be registered under more than one route, but it is the obligation of the teacher to apply for the route or routes of registration. It should be noted that in accordance with statute, the Department has no role in the registration of individual teachers.
To assist with teacher supply challenges, in the Teaching Council’s recently revised Registration Regulations, 2025, which were effected on 16 October 2025, a Timebound Provision has been created which provides for teachers who completed a teacher education qualification in another country, but have not completed the necessary induction there, to apply for registration to the Teaching Council and to complete Droichead (induction) here in the Republic of Ireland. Specific eligibility and qualification requirement apply to this timebound provision. This timebound provision is open to receipt of applications until 30 December 2027. Anyone wishing to avail of this must complete their programme of study and submit a complete application before this date. They must also meet the specific eligibility and qualification requirements. Further information in relation to the timebound provision including the eligibility criteria can be located here:
www.teachingcouncil.ie/qualified-outside-of-ireland-induction-not-complete/#eligibility-requirements
Applications for the Timebound Provision will be accepted from 9am on Wednesday, 22 October 2025.
408. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware of ongoing communication challenges between the Teaching Council and applicants seeking to transfer their registration routes; the steps being taken to ensure timely, transparent and supportive communication with teachers who are actively employed in schools and awaiting guidance on their registration status; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57080/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Teaching Council registers teachers under the Teaching Council Act 2001-2015 and in line with the Teaching Council Registration Regulations, 2025. As set out in the Schedule of the Regulations, the Council registers teachers under five routes of registration: Route 1 - Primary, Route 2 - Post-primary, Route 3 - Further Education, Route 4 - Other and Route 5 - Student Teacher. The qualification requirements for each route are set down in the Schedule.
Under the Teaching Council Acts 2001-2015 the Teaching Council is the body with the statutory authority and responsibility for the regulation of the teaching profession in Ireland including the registration of teachers in the State.
The Teaching Council is the regulator of the teaching profession in Ireland. Their role is to protect the public by promoting and regulating professional standards in teaching. They do this through the statutory registration of teachers, ensuring a highly qualified teaching profession, whose members meet and uphold high standards of professional competence and conduct.
As a statutory body, the Teaching Council is required by law to properly determine and to authenticate the relevant standards and qualifications of all applicants for registration, including those who have qualified outside of Ireland. The Department has no role in the registration of individual teachers.
There is no mechanism whereby a teacher can transfer route with the Teaching Council. The Council may suggest another route of registration depending on qualifications, or a teacher may apply for a different route if they gain additional qualifications. A teacher may also be registered under more than one route of registration. It is the responsibility of the applicant to apply for whichever route or routes of registration applies.
All applications from teachers who qualified outside of the Republic of Ireland are processed in line with the EU Directive 2005/36/EU and are assessed under its general system in the same manner, regardless of whether the applicant qualified within or outside of the EU. Further details on this process can be found on the Teaching Council website.
Teaching qualifications are recognised differently in national contexts, jurisdictions, and educational sectors around the world, therefore persons completing teacher education qualifications outside the State and seeking to register with the Teaching Council must have their qualifications assessed to determine that they are comparable to accredited qualifications in Ireland.
All applications are assessed on an individual, case by case basis. The assessments are holistic and include the individual combination of relevant qualifications, teaching experience, and lifelong learning. The relevant criteria are equally applied to all applicants.
The Teaching Council has streamlined registration systems and processes in place to ensure the timely processing of applications for registration while also ensuring that professional standards are upheld, in line with its statutory remit. The Teaching Council assists the progress of applicants by providing support and guidance at all times throughout the process.
In the delivery of its functions, the Council is committed to providing customer service of the highest standards to the public and stakeholders, with a focus on remaining professional, open and transparent.
The Customer Service Charter is published on the Teaching Council website and reflects their commitment to providing high quality customer service in line with Customer Service initiatives approved by Government. Their Customer Service Action Plan 2024-2027, also available on the website, details how the standards and commitments set out in the Charter will be implemented, monitored, and reviewed by the Teaching Council. Developed in accordance with the 12 Guiding Principles of Quality Customer Service, the Action Plan outlines the service standards our customers can expect, along with the key performance indicators they use to measure and continuously improve their performance.
As a public body, the Teaching Council is under the auspices of the Office of the Ombudsman. Further information can be found on the website at www.ombudsman.ie/making-a-complaint/make-a-complaint/
409. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will investigate reported inconsistencies in the Teaching Council’s handling of registration route transfers, particularly in cases where teachers with similar qualifications and experience have received differing outcomes; if she will ensure that all applicants are treated equitably and in a timely manner; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57081/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Teaching Council registers teachers under the Teaching Council Act 2001-2015 and in line with the Teaching Council Registration Regulations, 2025. As set out in the Schedule of the Regulations, the Council registers teachers under five routes of registration: Route 1 - Primary, Route 2 - Post-primary, Route 3 - Further Education, Route 4 - Other and Route 5 - Student Teacher. The qualification requirements for each route are set down in the Schedule.
Under the Teaching Council Acts 2001-2015 the Teaching Council is the body with the statutory authority and responsibility for the regulation of the teaching profession in Ireland including the registration of teachers in the State.
The Teaching Council is the regulator of the teaching profession in Ireland. Its role is to protect the public by promoting and regulating professional standards in teaching. This is carried out through the statutory registration of teachers, ensuring a highly qualified teaching profession, whose members meet and uphold high standards of professional competence and conduct.
As a statutory body, the Teaching Council is required by law to properly determine and to authenticate the relevant standards and qualifications of all applicants for registration, including those who have qualified outside of Ireland. The Department has no role in the registration of individual teachers.
There is no mechanism whereby a teacher can transfer route with the Teaching Council. The Council may suggest another route more appropriate to the qualifications, or a teacher may apply for a different route if they gain additional qualifications. A teacher may be registered under more than one route. It is the obligation of the teacher to apply for the route of registration commensurate with their qualifications.
All applications from teachers who qualified outside of the Republic of Ireland are processed in line with the EU Directive 2005/36/EU and are assessed under its general system in the same manner, regardless of whether the applicant qualified within or outside of the EU. Further details on this process can be found on the Teaching Council website.
Teaching qualifications are recognised differently in national contexts, jurisdictions, and educational sectors around the world, therefore persons completing teacher education qualifications outside the State and seeking to register with the Teaching Council must have their qualifications assessed to determine that they are comparable to accredited qualifications in Ireland.
All applications are assessed on an individual, case by case basis. While it may seem that one set of circumstances apply to all qualifications, there are differences, sometimes minor, to be taken account of by the Teaching Council.
The assessments are holistic and include the individual combination of relevant qualifications, teaching experience, and lifelong learning. The relevant criteria are equally applied to all applicants. The Teaching Council is independent in their registration function.
The Teaching Council has streamlined registration systems and processes in place to ensure the timely processing of applications for registration while also ensuring that professional standards are upheld, in line with its statutory remit. The Teaching Council assists the progress of applicants by providing support and guidance at all times throughout the process.
An applicant can submit an appeal to the Registration Committee Review Group if:
• Registration has been refused
• Registration conditions have been imposed
Further information is available on the Teaching Council website.
As a public body, the Teaching Council is under the auspices of the Office of the Ombudsman. Further information can be found on the website at www.ombudsman.ie/making-a-complaint/make-a-complaint/
410. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will request the Teaching Council to review cases where teachers with comparable qualifications and experience have received inconsistent decisions regarding their registration route; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57082/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Teaching Council registers teachers under the Teaching Council Act 2001-2015 and in line with the Teaching Council Registration Regulations, 2025. As set out in the Schedule of the Regulations, the Council registers teachers under five routes of registration: Route 1 - Primary, Route 2 - Post-primary, Route 3 - Further Education, Route 4 - Other and Route 5 - Student Teacher. The qualification requirements for each route are set down in the Schedule.
Under the Teaching Council Acts 2001-2015 the Teaching Council is the body with the statutory authority and responsibility for the regulation of the teaching profession in Ireland including the registration of teachers in the State.
The Teaching Council is the regulator of the teaching profession in Ireland. Its role is to protect the public by promoting and regulating professional standards in teaching. This is carried out through the statutory registration of teachers, ensuring a highly qualified teaching profession, whose members meet and uphold high standards of professional competence and conduct.
As a statutory body, the Teaching Council is required by law to properly determine and to authenticate the relevant standards and qualifications of all applicants for registration, including those who have qualified outside of Ireland. The Department has no role in the registration of individual teachers.
All applications from teachers who qualified outside of the Republic of Ireland are processed in line with the EU Directive 2005/36/EU and are assessed under its general system in the same manner, regardless of whether the applicant qualified within or outside of the EU. Further details on this process can be found on the Teaching Council website.
Teaching qualifications are recognised differently in national contexts, jurisdictions, and educational sectors around the world, therefore persons completing teacher education qualifications outside the State and seeking to register with the Teaching Council must have their qualifications assessed to determine that they are comparable to accredited qualifications in Ireland.
All applications are assessed on an individual, case by case basis. While it may seem that one set of circumstances apply to all qualifications, it is important that minor differences are provided for, if, for example relevant experience may demonstrate attainment of an aspect required, by the Teaching Council.
The assessments are holistic and include the individual combination of relevant qualifications, teaching experience, and lifelong learning. The relevant criteria are equally applied to all applicants. The Teaching Council is independent in their registration function.
An applicant can submit an appeal to the Registration Committee Review Group if:
• Registration has been refused
• Registration conditions have been imposed
Further information is available on the Teaching Council website.
As a public body, the Teaching Council is under the auspices of the Office of the Ombudsman. Further information can be found on the website at www.ombudsman.ie/making-a-complaint/make-a-complaint/
411. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Education and Youth the means by which her Department is addressing the situation whereby teachers registered under route 3 are currently prevented from commencing the Droichead process, despite being actively employed in Irish schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57083/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Teaching Council registers teachers under the Teaching Council Act 2001-2015 and in line with the Teaching Council Registration Regulations, 2025. As set out in the Schedule of the Regulations, the Council registers teachers under five routes of registration: Route 1 - Primary, Route 2 - Post-primary, Route 3 - Further Education, Route 4 - Other and Route 5 - Student Teacher. The qualification requirements for each route are set down in the Schedule to the Regulations.
Under the Teaching Council Acts 2001-2015 the Teaching Council is the body with the statutory authority and responsibility for the regulation of the teaching profession in Ireland including the registration of teachers in the State. The Department has no role in the registration of individual teachers.
The Teaching Council is the regulator of the teaching profession in Ireland. Its role is to protect the public by promoting and regulating professional standards in teaching. It carries this out through the statutory registration of teachers, ensuring a highly qualified teaching profession, whose members meet and uphold high standards of professional competence and conduct.
The 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).
In accordance with Department Circular 44/2019 and Circular 31/2011, which are available on the Department’s website under gov.ie - Department of Education, schools are required to employ appropriately qualified teachers (as demonstrated by registration under the appropriate route) and ensure that unemployed teachers should be offered employment in preference to those who have retired. These measures were taken in an effort to increase employment opportunities for unemployed teachers.
Chapter 2 of Circular 44/2019 deals with the recruitment of teachers in Primary & Special Schools.
As per circular 31/2011 Post Primary:
6. Employment of unregistered persons in exceptional circumstances to cover short-term absences
6.1 Following the taking of all reasonable steps under paragraph 4, a school may employ an unregistered person where, due to urgent and unforeseen circumstances, it is necessary for the immediate filling of a teaching post in order to prevent school closure, safeguard the welfare of students or is necessary to maintain provision in the school.
6.2 An unregistered person may be employed only where the principal records in writing that–
(i) following the taking of all reasonable efforts under paragraph 4, the school is not in a position to employ a registered teacher and the reasons for this, and
(ii) the person proposed for appointment is competent and capable of acting in a teaching capacity in the school.
6.3 An unregistered person employed in accordance with paragraph 6.1– 6 (a) will be paid at the unqualified rate of pay; (b) may not be paid in respect of more than one week’s continuous employment at any one time; and (c) must have included in his or her contract of employment a condition that the contract will terminate immediately if the employer is in a position to employ a registered teacher.
The Teaching Council registers teachers under Route 3 - Further Education (FE) in line with the Teaching Council Acts and the Teaching Council (Registration) Regulations 2016. Registration under Route 3 requires a teacher-education qualification suitable for the purposes of teaching in FE settings and can be completed as part of an undergraduate degree or in addition to an undergraduate degree accredited in accordance with the Further Education: General and Programme Requirements for the Accreditation of Teacher Education Qualifications.
The Department applies the routes to determine the sector to which each route of registration should apply. Details can be found in the relevant Department circulars mentioned previously.
Droichead, the Teaching Council’s integrated professional induction framework for newly qualified teachers is open to teachers registered under Route 1, Route 2 or Route 4 with the Teaching Council. It is important to note that the teacher must be qualified and registered under the appropriate route of registration for the sector that they are employed in, and to which Droichead applies, that is, primary and post-primary.
412. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will intervene to ensure that teachers registered under route 3, who are actively teaching in Irish schools, are not excluded from accessing the Droichead process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57084/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Teaching Council registers teachers under the Teaching Council Act 2001-2015 and in line with the Teaching Council Registration Regulations, 2025. As set out in the Schedule of the Regulations, the Council registers teachers under five routes of registration: Route 1 - Primary, Route 2 - Post-primary, Route 3 - Further Education, Route 4 - Other and Route 5 - Student Teacher. The qualification requirements for each route are set down in the Schedule to the Regulations.
Under the Teaching Council Acts 2001-2015 the Teaching Council is the body with the statutory authority and responsibility for the regulation of the teaching profession in Ireland including the registration of teachers in the State. The Department has no role in the registration of individual teachers.
The Teaching Council is the regulator of the teaching profession in Ireland. Its role is to protect the public by promoting and regulating professional standards in teaching. This is carried out through the statutory registration of teachers, ensuring a highly qualified teaching profession, whose members meet and uphold high standards of professional competence and conduct.
The 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).
In accordance with Department Circular 44/2019 and Circular 31/2011, which are available on the Department’s website under gov.ie - Department of Education, schools are required to employ appropriately qualified teachers and ensure that unemployed teachers should be offered employment in preference to those who have retired. These measures were taken in an effort to increase employment opportunities for unemployed teachers.
The Teaching Council registers teachers under Route 3 - Further Education (FE) in line with the Teaching Council Acts and the Teaching Council (Registration) Regulations 2025. Registration under Route 3 requires a teacher-education qualification suitable for the purposes of teaching in FE settings and can be completed as part of an undergraduate degree or in addition to an undergraduate degree accredited in accordance with the Further Education: General and Programme Requirements for the Accreditation of Teacher Education Qualifications.
The Department applies the routes to determine the sector to which each route of registration should apply. Details can be found in the relevant Department circulars referred to previously.
Droichead, the Teaching Council’s integrated professional induction framework is open to newly qualified teachers registered under Route 1, Route 2 or Route 4, who meet the eligibility requirements as set out by the Teaching Council. It is important to note that the teacher must be qualified and registered under the appropriate route of registration for the sector that they are employed in., and for which Droichead applies, that is primary and post-primary.
413. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Education and Youth the impact the current barriers to registration and induction are having on teacher supply, particularly in areas experiencing acute shortages such as north County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57085/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Teaching Council registers teachers under the Teaching Council Act 2001-2015 and in line with the [Teaching Council Registration Regulations, 2025]. As set out in the Schedule of the Regulations, the Council registers teachers under five routes of registration: Route 1 - Primary, Route 2 - Post-primary, Route 3 - Further Education, Route 4 - Other and Route 5 - Student Teacher. The qualification requirements for each route are set down in the Schedule.
Under the Teaching Council Acts 2001-2015 the Teaching Council is the body with the statutory authority and responsibility for the regulation of the teaching profession in Ireland including the registration of teachers in the State. The Department has no role in the registration of individual teachers.
The Teaching Council is the regulator of the teaching profession in Ireland. Its role is to protect the public by promoting and regulating professional standards in teaching. This is carried out through the statutory registration of teachers, ensuring a highly qualified teaching profession, whose members meet and uphold high standards of professional competence and conduct.
As a statutory body, the Teaching Council is required by law to properly determine and to authenticate the relevant standards and qualifications of all applicants for registration, including those who have qualified outside of Ireland.
All applications from teachers who qualified outside of the Republic of Ireland are processed in line with the EU Directive 2005/36/EU and are assessed under its general system in the same manner, regardless of whether the applicant qualified within or outside of the EU. Further details on this process can be found on the Teaching Council website.
To assist with teacher supply challenges, in the Teaching Council’s recently revised Registration Regulations, 2025, which were effected on 16 October 2025, a Timebound Provision has been created which provides for teachers who completed a teacher education qualification in another country, but have not completed the necessary induction there, to apply for registration to the Teaching Council and to complete Droichead (induction) here in the Republic of Ireland. Specific eligibility and qualification requirement apply to this timebound provision. This timebound provision is open to receipt of applications until 30 December 2027. Anyone wishing to avail of this must complete their programme of study and submit a complete application before this date. They must also meet the specific eligibility and qualification requirements. Further information in relation to the timebound provision including the eligibility criteria can be located[here: ]www.teachingcouncil.ie/qualified-outside-of-ireland-induction-not-complete/#eligibility-requirements
Applications for the Timebound Provision will be accepted from 9am on Wednesday, 22 October 2025.
All applications are assessed on an individual, case by case basis. The assessments are holistic and include the individual combination of relevant qualifications, teaching experience, and lifelong learning. The relevant criteria are equally applied to all applicants.
In relation to Teacher Supply, as of March 2025 there were 8,165.8 allocated teaching posts at post primary level in Dublin county, and 7,976.3 Full Time Equivalents (FTEs). There was some 97.7% cover in Dublin county.
At primary level, there were 10,051.5 allocated teaching posts and 9,539.4 FTE’s in Dublin county, equating to some 94.9% cover.
There is a record number of registered teachers; the Teaching Council reported 94,928 teachers registered in the 2016/17 school year increasing to 122,743 teachers registered in 2023/24. Currently, the Teacher Council have reported that there are 127, 077 teachers on the register.
414. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will assess the impact of Teaching Council registration delays and route transfer barriers on the availability of qualified teachers in Dublin schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57086/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Teaching Council registers teachers under the Teaching Council Act 2001-2015 and in line with the Teaching Council Registration Regulations, 2025. As set out in the Schedule of the Regulations, the Council registers teachers under five routes of registration: Route 1 - Primary, Route 2 - Post-primary, Route 3 - Further Education, Route 4 - Other and Route 5 - Student Teacher. The qualification requirements for each route are set down in the Schedule to the Regulations.
Under the Teaching Council Acts 2001-2015 the Teaching Council is the body with the statutory authority and responsibility for the regulation of the teaching profession in Ireland including the registration of teachers in the State. The Department has no role in the registration of individual teachers.
The Teaching Council is the regulator of the teaching profession in Ireland. Its role is to protect the public by promoting and regulating professional standards in teaching. This is carried out through the statutory registration of teachers, ensuring a highly qualified teaching profession, whose members meet and uphold high standards of professional competence and conduct.
All applications from teachers who qualified outside of the Republic of Ireland are processed in line with the EU Directive 2005/36/EU and are assessed under its general system in the same manner, regardless of whether the applicant qualified within or outside of the EU. Further details on this process can be found on the Teaching Council website.
All applications are assessed on an individual, case by case basis. The assessments are holistic and include the individual combination of relevant qualifications, teaching experience, and lifelong learning. The relevant criteria are applied equally to all applicants.
As outlined on the Teaching Council website information for applicants, the registration process for applicants who have qualified in the Republic of Ireland (ROI) may take up to 6 weeks from receipt of all application documentation, including vetting documentation, and depending on the time of year.
Applications from individuals who have qualified outside the ROI are processed within one week of receipt to ensure all required documentation has been submitted. If documentation is outstanding, applicants are emailed with the list of required outstanding documentation. When all the required documentation has been submitted and it is deemed to be a full application, the Teaching Council aims to issue a decision within 12 weeks. This is in line with EU Directive 2005/36/EC. The average time from receipt of a full application from a teacher who qualified outside of ROI to a decision being issued is 6 weeks for post-primary applications and 7 weeks for primary applications.
Applicants are also legally required to be vetted by the National Vetting Bureau, provide overseas police clearance, as required, and complete all required declarations as part of the registration process. Processing timeframes for vetting are available on the Teaching Council website.
In relation to Teacher Supply, as of March 2025 there were 8,165.8 allocated teaching posts at post primary level in Dublin county, and 7,976.3 Full Time Equivalents (FTEs). There was some 97.7% cover in Dublin county.
At primary level, there were 10,051.5 allocated teaching posts and 9,539.4 FTE’s in Dublin county, equating to some 94.9% cover.
There is a record number of registered teachers; the Teaching Council reported 94,928 teachers registered in the 2016/17 school year increasing to 122,743 teachers registered in 2023/24. Currently, the Teacher Council have reported that there are 127, 077 teachers on the register.
415. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Education and Youth the Teaching Council’s current policy regarding the recognition of teaching qualifications obtained through online programmes from UK universities; if she will ensure that such qualifications are treated equitably in the registration process, particularly where professional placement was completed in an Irish school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57087/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Teaching Council registers teachers under the Teaching Council Act 2001-2015 and in line with the Teaching Council Registration Regulations, 2025. As set out in the Schedule of the Regulations, the Council registers teachers under five routes of registration: Route 1 - Primary, Route 2 - Post-primary, Route 3 - Further Education, Route 4 - Other and Route 5 - Student Teacher. The qualification requirements for each route are set down in the Schedule to the Regulations.
Under the Teaching Council Acts 2001-2015 the Teaching Council is the body with the statutory authority and responsibility for the regulation of the teaching profession in Ireland including the registration of teachers in the State. The Department has no role in the registration of individual teachers.
Registration of Fully Qualified Teachers from Outside ROI
Fully qualified teachers who have qualified outside of the Republic of Ireland (ROI) are eligible to apply for registration with the Teaching Council. A person deemed to be a fully qualified teacher has completed a recognised teacher education qualification and programme of induction in the country in which they qualified and can provide a letter confirming that status from the relevant teacher registration body or Ministry of Education.
Given the importance and impact of teaching which affects the lives of learners, the Teaching Council has a responsibility to safeguard entry to the profession in a way that supports quality teaching and learning. The Council also has a responsibility to ensure that all teachers entering the profession have met the same standards. The standards for Initial Teacher Education in Ireland are set out in the Council's policy ‘Céim: Standards for Initial Teacher Education’. All teacher education programmes in Ireland must be aligned with Céim to gain professional accreditation with the Teaching Council. Therefore, the qualifications of teachers who qualified out-of-state are assessed to ensure they are of a comparable standard to those achieved by graduates of accredited initial teacher education programmes in Ireland. All applications from teachers who qualified outside of the Republic of Ireland are processed in line with the EU Directive 2005/36/EU and are assessed under its general system in the same manner, regardless of whether the applicant qualified within or outside of the EU. Further details on this process can be found on the Teaching Council website.
All applications are assessed on an individual, case by case basis. The assessments are holistic and include the individual combination of relevant qualifications, teaching experience, and lifelong learning.
Teachers not fully qualified from Outside of ROI
To assist with teacher supply challenges, in the Teaching Council’s recently revised Registration Regulations, 2025, which were effected on 16 October 2025, a Timebound Provision has been created which provides for teachers who completed a teacher education qualification in another country, but have not completed the necessary induction there, to apply for registration to the Teaching Council and to complete Droichead (induction) here in the Republic of Ireland. Specific eligibility and qualification requirement apply to this timebound provision. This timebound provision is open to receipt of applications until 30 December 2027. Anyone wishing to avail of this must complete their programme of study and submit a complete application before this date. They must also meet the specific eligibility and qualification requirements. Further information in relation to the timebound provision including the eligibility criteria can be located here: www.teachingcouncil.ie/qualified-outside-of-ireland-induction-not-complete/#eligibility-requirements.
Teaching qualifications are recognised differently in national contexts, jurisdictions, and educational sectors around the world, therefore persons completing teacher education qualifications outside the State and seeking to register with the Teaching Council must have their qualifications assessed to determine that they are comparable to accredited qualifications.
International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) is not a direct alternative to an initial teacher education (ITE) qualification from a provider accredited with the Teaching Council e.g. students in Ireland must complete an undergraduate ITE programme which generally takes four years or a postgraduate degree, called the Professional Master of Education (PME) which takes two years after a Level 8 undergraduate degree in a curricular subject area.
The Teaching Council has carried out assessments of various types of qualifications to determine if they meet the eligibility and qualification requirements for registration. Based on these assessments the Council has found that traditional College / University-based programmes, for example Postgraduate Certificates in Education, are the most closely aligned with initial teacher education qualifications in Ireland and were, therefore, most likely to meet the requirements for registration under the Regulation. On the basis of applications assessed, the Council has found that models such as international variations of traditional College/University-based programmes were less likely to meet the eligibility requirements and outside the scope of the Regulation. This ensures equity and parity of treatment for graduates from ITE programmes within the state, and graduates from outside of the state.
416. Deputy Eoin Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Youth the details of the vacant buildings owned by her Department or by agencies under the remit of her Department in Dublin 2, 4, 6, and 6W, including, the address and size in square meters; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57108/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information requested by the Deputy is set out in the table below. There are currently two vacant properties (for which there are no building projects planned or in train). However, this position can evolve and is kept under review. There are currently no properties leased by my Department that are vacant.
By way of information the number of properties owned by my Department is very small. A large majority of schools are patron-owned with only approximately 9% of schools in Ministerial ownership nationwide.
|
Property |
Location |
Comment |
Size |
|
Muckross Hostel |
Donnybrook Dublin 4 |
Entire premises consists of a school and a hostel |
Site consists of .33 of a hectare |
|
Harold’s Cross |
Dublin 2 |
Entire site consists of old Harold’s Cross race track. School is currently being constructed which will occupy most of the site with the exception of a vacant house. |
|
417. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Education and Youth her views on comments regarding the education budget for 2026 (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57139/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the lead up to the Budget, my Department received a number of pre-budget submissions from a range of different stakeholders in the education sector, including the INTO's pre-Budget submission, and from organisations involved in other areas of public policy. As in previous years, relevant submissions are reviewed, and these inform the areas for consideration that are negotiated as part of the annual budgetary process and within set fiscal parameters.
Over the past number of years, the Government has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to strengthening our education and youth sectors. This includes increased capitation funding for schools, the allocation of thousands of additional teaching and Special Needs Assistant posts, enhanced supports for school leadership, smaller class sizes, targeted measures to address teacher supply, increased funding for youth services and the provision of free schoolbooks at both primary and post-primary levels to ease financial pressure on families.
I can confirm that Budget 2026 provides an increase of €845 million in current funding to my Department's Vote, in addition to an overall €1.6 billion in capital funding that was previously secured through funding from the revised National Development Plan agreed earlier this year . This brings the overall allocation for my Department in 2026 to €13.1 Billion. The additional funding builds on the significant increases in recent budgets and further enhances the investment in Ireland’s education and youth sectors. The significant increased investment is the largest education budget in the history of the state and reflects the government’s commitment to a quality inclusive school system and improved learning outcomes for every student.
The 2026 Budget documentation published sets out funding for key measures and actions agreed for the coming year, as follows:
• A significant increase in school funding with state funding per pupil – known as the capitation rate – increasing from €224 to €274 per student in primary schools and from €386 to €406 per student in post-primary schools. Over the last three Budgets this has resulted in an increase in the level of mainstream capitation rates of almost 50% paid to primary schools and 29% paid to post-primary schools.
• Funding for 1,717 additional SNAs, bringing the total number of SNAs in schools to almost 24,900. This is the highest ever-number of SNAs allocated supporting the care needs of children in mainstream, special classes and special schools.
• Funding for 860 additional teachers for special education working in special classes and special schools, as well as special education teachers in mainstream settings, to support children with special educational needs. In total, there will be over 46,500 dedicated staff working in schools in 2026 to support children with special educational needs.
• The National Development Plan in 2026 will support progressing the delivery of over 300 school building projects currently at construction with the majority expected to be completed in 2026 and 2027. It is also envisaged that circa 80 school building projects will progress to construction across 2026 and 2027 as part of two-year rolling programme. There will be a strong special education dimension which will include facilitating the establishment of circa. 3,000 additional school places in special classes and special schools for the 2026/27 school year primarily through the repurposing of existing capacity.
• The Programme for Government 2025 commits to the introduction of an Education Therapy Service (ETS), with additional €16 million allocated in 2026, to continue the roll out of school therapy within special schools and extend it into mainstream schools. This will help to ensure all children and young people have access to essential speech and language and occupational therapy in a timely manner.
• Funding of €48 million has been secured to implement a new Delivering Equality of Opportunity In Schools (DEIS) Plus scheme, commencing in September 2026 to support pupils and students at the highest risk of educational disadvantage and at risk of educational disadvantage in both DEIS and non-DEIS schools through a new DEIS Plan.
• Over €69 million in additional funding for the School Transport Scheme to provide more places for children, including those with special educational needs, and to cover additional bus contractor costs.
• Funding of €3 million will be made available to provide for enhanced School Leadership with additional Deputy Principals in primary and post primary schools for the 2026/27 school year.
• Increases in the dedicated special needs co-ordination available to provide resources towards the growing number of children with special educational needs transitioning to post primary schools.
• Increased funding of €19 million will be provided for the continuation of important curricular development and related teacher education. This includes support for the ongoing delivery of Senior Cycle Redevelopment along with a range of other planned enhancements in the teaching and learning experience in our schools.
• Increase in funding by €8m for Youth services to support the sustainability and expansion of existing services for young people. It will enable upgrades to facilities, equipment, and digital infrastructure. The investment strengthens a resilient, inclusive youth sector for communities nationwide.
• Funding in 2026 will establish a Convention on Education, fulfilling a key Government commitment which will focus on primary and post-primary but will include the transition experiences from early childhood education to primary and from post-primary to further and higher education. It offers a unique chance for all stakeholders to shape Ireland’s education system for the future.
• Additional funding is being provided to support any changes to the Reasonable Accommodations at Certificate Examination (RACE) Scheme in 2026 arising from the comprehensive review being conducted by the State Examinations Commission.
As outlined above, the Budget documentation published sets out funding for key measures and actions agreed for the coming year. As the Deputy may be aware, in line with standard practice, the final allocation of funding for my Department for 2026 will be set out in the 2026 Revised Estimates Volume (REV) which is due to be published later this year. Further details on the 2026 allocations for my Department will be available after the 2026 REV process is complete.
418. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Education and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 482 of 14 October 2025, if she will provide a breakdown of the capital funding for youth affairs under Project Ireland 2040, where €7.55 billion will be invested in the education and youth sector over the period 2026 to 2030; if she will provide an annual breakdown of funding going to youth affairs under Project Ireland 2040; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57193/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like to thank the Deputy for their follow-up question. As previously stated, in Budget 2026, an additional €8 million in current and capital funding has been committed to support the sustainability and development of youth services. The increased funding will support both operational delivery and infrastructure improvements across the youth sector. It will enable services to maintain and expand tailored supports for young people, while also facilitating essential upgrades to facilities, equipment, and digital infrastructure where appropriate.
The Budget documentation published sets out funding for key measures and actions agreed for the coming year. As the Deputy may be aware, in line with standard practice, the final allocation of funding for my Department for 2026 will be set out in the 2026 Revised Estimates Volume (REV) which is due to be published later this year. Further details on the 2026 allocations for my Department will be available after the 2026 REV process is complete.
419. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Education and Youth the breakdown of the number of applications for school transport in County Wexford for the 2025/2026 academic year; the number of pupils who were issued a bus ticket under the scheme; the number of pupils who were refused a place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57206/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.
Under the current terms of the School Transport Schemes, children are eligible for transport at primary level where they reside not less than 3.2 kilometres from and are attending their nearest national school, and at post primary level where they reside not less than 4.8 kilometres from and are attending their nearest post primary school/education centre as determined by the department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.
Eligible children who complete the application process and pay or enter their medical card details on time will get a seat on a school bus service, if a service is available.
Children who are not eligible but who apply for school transport are considered for spare seats that may exist after eligible children have been facilitated; such seats are referred to as concessionary seats.
Because of the nature of concessionary transport for non-eligible children and the priority of providing places for eligible children, there may be an excess of demand over supply for concessionary places. In these cases Bus Éireann will allocate tickets for spare seats using an agreed selection process.
A minimum number of 10 eligible children residing in a distinct locality, as determined by Bus Éireann, are required before consideration may be given to the establishment or retention of school transport services, provided this can be done within reasonable cost limits.
Bus Éireann have advised that approximately 8,800 applications were received for school transport in Wexford for the 2025/26 school year, and just over 8,000 tickets issued to pupils. In relation to the remaining applications, the reasons that these did not result in tickets being issued include but are not limited to: duplicate and late applications, no service payments not received, no service in place and no seat available.
420. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of children with additional needs in County Wexford who are currently without a suitable school place for the upcoming academic year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57210/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is the statutory body responsible for the provision of special education and allocating supports for children with special educational needs.
Close to 4, 000 places were made available for the 2025/26 school year. This was made up of 2,700 new places and 1,200 places through the natural movement of students from primary to post-primary or out of education.
The NCSE has advised my department just under 3,300 valid notifications were received by mid-February via their new parent notify service. While parents were asked to notify the NCSE by mid-February the NCSE received further notifications after this date. The NCSE advise that just over 700 special vacancies remain at national level in schools at the start of this school year and there are a number of vacancies remaining in every county in the country.
I urge any parent still seeking placement to make contact with the NCSE who will provide guidance and support with securing a placement.
The NCSE and my Department continue to engage in relation to the forward planning of additional special class and special school provision for the next school year 2026/2027.
422. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Education and Youth where parents can find guidance on the structure for children opted out of religion under the new primary school curriculum. [57241/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provisions of the Education (Admission to Schools) Act 2018 requires, where schools provide religious instruction, they must clearly set out in their admission policies the school’s arrangements for students, where the parent or in the case of a student who has reached the age of 18 years, the student, has requested that the student attend the school without attending religious instruction in the school. The manner in which any school ensures that the right to not attend religion instruction classes is upheld, is a matter for the school concerned. Each individual school must determine the particular arrangements which are most appropriate in its individual circumstances having regard to local issues such as available space, supervision requirements and how the school concerned organises classes, and other relevant matters.
Guidance for good practice is available to schools in the follow-up paper to the Report of the Forum on Patronage and Pluralism in the Primary Sector which was published in 2014. The paper provides an overview of different types of arrangements that schools can put in place to facilitate parents who do not wish for their children to attend religious instruction.?The paper encourages school authorities to consider their policies and practices and to review whether they are taking the steps necessary to welcome all pupils and make them feel included.
The Catholic Schools Partnership has published guidelines for Catholic schools in relation to the inclusion of all pupils. These guidelines also support schools to facilitate requests to attend school without attending religious instruction.?Most primary schools are State-aided parish schools, with the local bishop as patron. It is recognised, including by the Catholic school patrons, that our schools need to more accurately reflect the reality of our increasingly diverse society and meet the expectations parents have for their children.
The Programme for Government commits to seeking to increase choice for parents by ensuring that families can access both multi/non-denominational and faith-based education.???
The opportunities for the establishment of new multi-denominational primary schools have declined. Demographic trends and projections at primary school level nationally have peaked. In order to maximise the use of the existing school estate, the Department has developed the schools reconfiguration process. The schools reconfiguration process aims to meet demand from local school communities and to accelerate the delivery of multi-denominational schools by transferring schools to multi-denominational patrons, where school communities support this.?
The Department of Education and Youth has published a comprehensive Education Plan 2025 that outlines a significant body of work being undertaken to deliver for everyone in our school and youth services’ communities.
As part of the actions, there will be a consultation process with relevant stakeholders on the development of best practice guidance for primary schools in relation to providing for their diversity of enrolment, in the context of catering for children whose parents/guardians have requested their children attend school without attending religious instruction.
There are over 100 actions in this plan including a commitment to launch a survey of primary school parents and guardians and pre-school parents and guardians on their preferences on important aspects of school provision and choice, such as the future patronage and ethos of their school and facilitation of requests not to attend religious instruction.
423. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware that single teachers appointed since 2004 are required to make mandatory 1.5% pension contributions to the spouses’ and children’s pension scheme despite being ineligible for benefits under that scheme; if she considers this requirement to be equitable; and if she will engage with the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitisation to examine possible reform or refund mechanisms for single teachers. [57242/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraRevised Spouse & Children's (S&C) schemes were introduced in the public service from 1984 onwards and replaced the original schemes for all new entrants on or after their operative date(s). The Revised Scheme relevant to the education sector was introduced following recommendations of the Commission on Public Service Pensions 2000 and implemented via Department of Education Circular PEN14/05.
Membership of the revised scheme is compulsory for new entrants from 1 September 2005, and like the original S&C scheme, contributions are set at 1.5%, and there are no exemptions available based on marital or family status. In certain circumstances where a member has in excess of 40 years' service, they are entitled to a refund in respect of the excess period only, starting with the initial contributions paid.
The Revised S&C Schemes prevailing across the public service, were introduced in agreement with staff interests, extended the benefits payable to include post-retirement marriages and also extended the children's benefit to include a broader category of eligible children, including adoptive, post-retirement/resignation and non-marital children of the member.
S&C schemes operate on a similar basis to any group insurance scheme, whereby each member pays a contribution to ensure coverage, but not every member will receive a benefit from their scheme. The nature of the schemes is such that they provide for contingent benefits to each member. S&C Scheme benefits only become payable in the event of the member’s death; if a married member is pre-deceased by their spouse/civil partner, no spousal benefit is payable. Children’s benefits are only payable where the child is under 16 years of age or under age 22 and in full-time education or where the child is dependent (due for example a disability), and the disability occurred before the child reached age 16 or 22.
The Revised S& C Schemes do not provide for refunds of contributions to single members without dependents at retirement. This reflects the scheme’s structure as a collective risk-pooling arrangement, where contributions partially fund benefits for eligible survivors across the membership base. Furthermore, it is not possible to determine that a person will never benefit from the Revised S&C schemes as the schemes provides for marriage/civil partnership after retirement and or children outside of marriage, stepchildren of marriages after retirement, children adopted after marriage etc.
While the scheme does not differentiate contribution rates based on marital or parental status, it is acknowledged that some members may not ultimately benefit from the survivor provisions. However, this does not constitute unlawful discrimination under current pension legislation, as the scheme applies uniformly and is based on actuarial principles common to defined benefit arrangements. Public service S&C Schemes are not in contravention of equality legislation, and any refund mechanism, other than those permitted under the scheme rules, is not possible.
Officials in the Pension Unit of my Department have engaged with colleagues in Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitisation, and I understand there are no plans to review these arrangements.
424. Deputy Liam Quaide asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will provide an update on the building project at a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57243/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe project to which the Deputy refers has been devolved for delivery to Le Cheile Trust.
This project is currently at Stage 2a of the architectural design process.
Stage 2a (the developed design stage) involves the Design Team developing the design, fully cost planning the project and preparing the necessary documentation to facilitate the lodging for statutory approvals to Cork County Council as part of the Stage 2b process.
Le Cheile Trust will continue to engage directly with the school authority to keep it informed of progress.
The NDP Review process for the 2026 to 2030 period has recently concluded and involves an allocation of €7.55 billion for the Department of Education and Youth (DEY).
All government departments are now tasked to develop implementation plans based on their NDP Allocations. The DEY target will be to have this done and published in the Autumn. This will involve the department’s Planning & Building Unit undertaking a review and analysis to determine the optimum outputs to be achieved from the €7.55 billion allocation with a strong emphasis on maximising existing capacity and in relation to project delivery ensuring a continued focus on affordability, value for money and functionality.
In relation to project rollout for Large-Scale projects and Additional Accommodation Scheme projects, the approach will be to continue to maximise the capacity of the existing school estate as much as possible in the first instance and provide necessary additional capacity through targeted and prioritised project rollout over the course of 2026 to 2030 period to meet the most urgent and prioritised needs. This will be the context for assessing all project rollout for the 2026 to 2030 period.
The current status of all projects is listed on a county-by-county basis at www.gov.ie. and this is updated on a regular basis to reflect project progress through the various stages of capital appraisal, site acquisition, design, tender and construction.
425. Deputy Liam Quaide asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of suspensions and expulsions in special schools under the patronage of the ETBs in the school years 2021–22, 2022–23 and 2023–24, respectively. [57244/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraTusla Education Support Service (TESS) is under the remit of my department.
TESS operates under the Education (Welfare) Act, 2000, a piece of legislation that emphasises the promotion of school attendance, participation and retention. TESS has three strands namely the statutory Educational Welfare Service and the two school support services the Home School Community Liaison scheme and the School Completion Programme. The three TESS strands work together collaboratively with schools, parents and guardians and other relevant services to achieve the best educational outcomes for children and young people.
In line with the Education (Welfare) Act, 2000, all primary schools, including special schools, and post-primary schools must report annually on student non-attendance in primary and post-primary schools. This data is collected using the Tusla Portal hosted by the Child and Family Agency. Data is generated from the Annual Attendance Report (AAR), which provides total students suspended and total students expelled at school level. The data is gathered at an aggregated level and the reports for the 2021/22, 2022/23 and 2023/24 school years are available on the Tusla website at the following link: www.tusla.ie/services/educational-welfare-services/publications/research-and-statistics .
426. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Youth when grants awarded under her Department’s physical activity in teaching and learning scheme will be announced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57249/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Pilot Programme on Physical Activity in Teaching and Learning is designed to encourage teachers and school leaders, in consultation with their students, to consider how a subject can be taught through physical activity. Applications for the second phase of the pilot scheme have been assessed and 41 schools have been successful. The scheme will run over the school year 2025/2026, with the duration of the project determined by each school in their own context, taking into account the curricular area and physical activity they have chosen.
Schools have been notified and grants have been processed for those successful in their applications to the scheme.
