asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that the Rutland Street Project special pre-school is in danger of losing a teacher; and if he will make a statement on his policy in relation to the continued existence of the school in question.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rutland Street Project.
38.
As in the case in all schools, the teaching staff in this school is related to the number of pupils enrolled and is reviewed from time to time according as this number fluctuates. While there has been a reduction in enrolment over the past year or so, because of the experimental nature of the school, no reduction in staff is anticipated at the present time. There is no question of discontinuing pre-school provision in this case.
Is the Minister saying that he has withdrawn the notice issued to one teacher that his or her employment might not be continued after the end of the present school year? I understand such a notice was issued.
If such a notice was issued the final sentence of my reply covers the point. There is no question of a reduction in staff.
Would the Minister address himself to the last section of my question in which he is asked to make a statement of policy in relation to the continued existence of the school in question? Will the Minister assure the House that, despite the fall in numbers, this school will continue to exist as an experimental community base in the area in question?
If the Deputy listened carefully to my final sentence he would have heard me state that there is no question of discontinuing pre-school provision in this case.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.