243 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) employed in a community school is not receiving incremental credit for a period of six years employment with an Irish private secondary school. [10797/02]

The award of incremental credit has been the subject of lengthy discussions at the Teachers' Conciliation Council and agreement has been recorded on the majority of issues arising. The matter of awarding credit in respect of teaching service in second level schools, which are not recognised by my Department, is the subject of ongoing discussion at the council. It would be inappropriate for me to comment further on the matter until these discussions are complete.