The Minister for Education, Mary Hanafin, has launched a top-level inquiry into allegations of bullying and mismanagement at Kilkenny City Vocational School.
The inquiry will specifically examine the performance of Cathy McSorley as principal of the school. It will be conducted by Torlach O'Connor, a retired assistant chief inspector at the Department of Education.
The school has been the subject of controversy for several years. Three years ago, a management consultant commissioned by the local Vocational Education Committee (VEC) to examine the operation of the school concluded it was facing a serious crisis. There have also been allegations that pupils were paid to attend the school.
Teachers at the school have repeatedly complained of bullying and harassment.
Last year, Ms McSorley secured a High Court order restraining her suspension, pending the outcome of any Department of Education inquiry into allegations against her.
But Mr Justice Paul Gilligan said any inquiry by Co Kilkenny VEC into allegations against her may still proceed and should do so "with all due haste".
Among other issues the new inquiry, established by Ms Hanafin, will examine:
• the organisation and administration of the school in the area of human resource management.
• the alleged failure of Ms McSorley to effectively apply the school's disciplinary policy.
• the alleged engagement by Ms McSorley in the bullying of staff members of Co Kilkenny VEC.
• the alleged failure of Ms McSorley to comply with the lawful orders of the VEC as directed from time to time by the chief executive officer.
• the administration of the school by Ms McSorley with regard to recording of the roll books in the school and the supervision of a foreign trip by pupils in February 2001.
• the alleged payment by Ms McSorley to pupils enrolled in the school to ensure their attendance.
The terms of reference may be widened if the Minister believes it necessary.
Last year's court proceedings followed a number of reports by consultants into matters at Kilkenny Vocational School, where Ms McSorley has been principal since September 1999.
She claims there has been an ongoing campaign by certain staff members to undermine her authority. She has denied the allegations against her.
In May 2003 consultant John Dowling completed a report on the school. A second report was later compiled by the CEO of Co Waterford VEC, Paddy Lavelle.
A third report - the Whole School Evaluation Report - was compiled by Mary Kilbride of the Department of Education and Science.
