203 Mrs. O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education if she will review the case of a group of teachers (details supplied); the progress, if any, which has been made on this issue since 1990; the current situation on this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12600/97]

The situation in relation to the group of teachers to whom the Deputy refers is that the group sought to have incremental credit awarded in respect of untrained service given by the group prior to 1976. The claim has been examined very carefully within my Department.

Unfortunately, the claim cannot be conceded because of the likely costly repercussive effects in the wider public service.