Vol. 408 No. 2
32 Mr. G. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education if she will outline the action which has been taken in relation to the proposed teaching, clerical and caretaker staffing for the vocational education committees under the Programme for Economic and Social Progress; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
In so far as second level teaching staff for VECs is concerned, a pupil-teacher ratio of 19:1 for recruitment purposes is being phased in over 1991 and 1992. As a first step towards the full achievement of this ratio, a PTR of 19.5:1 for recruitment purposes has been introduced for the 1991-92 session. The "retention ratio" of 19:1, which was introduced for the 1990-91 session is also being continued for the 1991-92 session. My Department are currently examining arrangements for the phasing in of ex-quota vice-principal posts, to commence in 1992-93 as provided for in the programme.
In the case of the clerical and caretaking staff, my Department are currently assessing the requirements of vocational education committees having regard to the criteria laid down in the programme.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Priority Question Number 5 on today's Order Paper which sets out the position in relation to other provisions contained in the programme, including the provision of additional posts to post-primary schools in disadvantaged areas.
