Mr Burke requested that the panel chair, Andy Pike, step aside.
An application by Enoch Burke, for the chair of the Teaching Council panel examining allegations of professional misconduct against him to step aside, has been refused.
The jailed schoolteacher’s bid for the entire panel to recuse itself over what he claimed was a lack of independence has also been rejected.
The Teaching Council’s fitness-to-teach panel has ruled that Enoch Burke can receive a fair hearing and has rejected his claims that the inquiry lacks impartiality.
The allegations against the jailed schoolteacher stem from complaints about his repeated attendance at Wilson’s Hospital School in County Westmeath despite court orders directing him not to do so.
Mr Burke sought the recusal of both the panel chair, Andy Pike, and the wider panel, arguing they were not independent.
However, in a ruling delivered this morning, the panel found that both it and its chairperson are independent, impartial and can continue to hear the case.
Appearing remotely from Castlerea Prison, Mr Burke told the hearing it was “a grave and monumental error” that a man who supports the use of the pronoun “they” should chair the inquiry.
His microphone was then muted.
The hearing has been adjourned to allow Mr Burke time to consider the ruling.
Offaly Business Closed Over Food Safety Breach
Gardai Continuing Laois Meadow Fire Investigation
Gardaí Renew Appeal After Hit And Run In Laois
Fuel Prices Rise As Farmers Leave €65m Support Unclaimed
Barbara Heslin Retires From Longford County Council
Charter Medical Group And Vhi Form Partnership To Ensure Timely Endoscopy Access
Met Éireann Issues High Temperature Warning For 13 Counties
Cyclist In Her 80s Dies Following Bike And Truck Crash