HC Deb 29 March 1920 vol 127 c901W
Mr. DAVISON

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether the Commissioners of National Education in Ireland have placed a veto upon teachers acting as justices of the peace, on the ground that the duties of a magistrate would be inconsistent with the requirements of Rule 88 (a) of the Code; how such duties can be inconsistent with those of a teacher; and whether, in view of the fact that teachers have been appointed to the commission of the peace, he will reconsider this decision?

Mr. MACPHERSON

The Commissioners of National Education inform me that they consider that the performance of the functions of a magistrate by a national school teacher, even outside school hours, is in contravention of Rule 88 (a) of the Code, inasmuch as it tends to impair the usefulness of a teacher by placing him in a position which may bring him into conflict with local parties, and cause friction likely to injure the interests of his school.