The first ever inquiry into a teacher's fitness to practice will begin today in Maynooth, Co.Kildare.
The public hearing will look at whether or not the teacher is fit to work in an Irish school.
It has not been revealed if the public will be allowed to attend today’s hearing, but the identity of the teacher will not be revealed for their own protection.
It is understood that the name of the teacher's school has been kept private in order to protect young students involved in the case.
A complaint was made about the teacher, but no details have been released to the public yet.
A panel made up of three people will hear the case. It is believed that two teachers will be included in the panel. The third member has been chosen from a list of parents, third level academics and school managers.
It has been revealed that the panel have a similar power to the High Court. The hearing is set to take place over the next two days at the offices of the Teaching Council.
The Teaching Council has the power to remove someone from the teaching register. They can also suspend teachers from working. Other penalties include handwritten warnings and suggestions on how they can improve their role.
The Fitness to Practice legislation was launched last summer. Since the new legislation was introduced, the Teaching Council has received over 50 complaints about educators, especially in primary schools.
Half of the complaints were dismissed, but the other half have been investigated.
Today’s court case is the first to reach a full hearing. There is also an option to hold the hearing in private.
The Fitness to Practice legislation was brought in by Minister for Education Richard Bruton in 2016.
Anybody can make a complaint to the Teaching Council of Ireland, whether you’re a fellow teacher or a concerned parent.
Complaints that can be investigated include weak professional performance and having a criminal history.
If someone feels like an educator is medically unfit to teach, they can also be reported to the Teaching Council.
Complaints that have been submitted will be thoroughly reviewed by the director, if they are approved they will then be investigated by a committee.
The Teaching Council has stressed that the legislation is not about punishing teachers, but about improving Ireland’s education system and ensuring children receive the best education possible.
