asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a national school (details supplied) in Dublin 14 will, as a result of the proposed reductions in the pupil/teacher ratio lose two members of staff, both of whom are members of religious orders and therefore will not be placed on any of the appropriate panels and, as a result, the second and third classes in this school will be without teachers from 1 January 1988 including one teacher who was only sanctioned by her Department in September 1987; if, having regard to the situation in this particular school, she would make an exception and ensure that the teaching level is maintained; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Pupil/Teacher Ratio.
66.
The position of national schools where staffing may be affected under the new schedule of averages applicable from 1 January 1988 will not be determined until the school returns of averages for the quarter ended 31 December 1987 are available in January 1988. My Department will then communicate with the authorities of the school in question in the matter. However, while the revised schedule of averages is being introduced on 1 January 1988, teachers who are members of religious orders and not eligible for panel placement may be continued in post until the end of the school year.