asked the Minister for Education if, in view of the commitment contained in the Fianna Fáil election programme to reduce the pupil-teacher ratio, initially at primary level and then progressively into the post-primary system, she will make a statement on the proposals made to date in this area; and if she will give the expected pupil-teacher ratio for the academic year 1988-1989 for (a) primary level and (b) second level.
Written Answers. - Pupil-Teacher Ratio.
24.
The Deputy is well aware that any commitment to improve pupil/teacher ratios is conditional on improved financial circumstances. In line with the policy which has been adopted by the Government and which has been acted on firmly in preparing the budget for 1987 and the Estimates for 1988, certain cost-reducing measures have been decided on for the education area. In different circumstances these measures would not have been introduced. The measures which have been adopted have been carefully selected in order to achieve the necessary reductions in costs in the fairest way.
In regard to primary education, a revision has been made in the schedule of average pupil enrolment figures required for the appointment and retention of teachers in national schools. As a result and taking account of falling enrolments, it is estimated that the average pupil/teacher ratio in 1988 will be 29:1.
In the case of post-primary schools, a common pupil/teacher ratio of 20:1 is being introduced in all such schools as from the beginning of the 1988-89 school-year.