Schools face continuing substitute teacher shortage

A Carrigallen school principal is strongly disputing claims by the Education Minister that there is no issue with sourcing substitute teachers.

Alan Kelly who is principal of the 152 pupil Scoil Mhuire Naofa in Carrigallen says there is in fact a major crisis and it's being ignored by the Department.

Mr Kelly is a member of the National Principals Forum.

It was set up in recent years in an effort to lobby for better conditions and help retain people in the profession.

He says many schools still have no choice but to use Special Education Teachers to cover for absent colleagues, and that is depriving children who need extra help.

Hear the full interview with Alan Kelly here as broadcast on today's Let's Talk show