'Supply panel' one option being explored to address substitute teacher shortages, says Minister

The re-establishment of panels of primary teachers paid to be on standby to cover absences should go ahead to help alleviate a teacher supply crisis, Education Minister Joe McHugh has said.

Although final details have yet to be agreed by his department, the minister said a ‘supply panel’ system which was piloted for several years is one option that can be used to address substitute shortages in particular.