asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the worsening of the pupil-teacher ratio in vocational and community schools will result in the loss of over 500 teaching jobs which will result in increased class sizes, loss of subjects and restriction of subject options; if her attention has been further drawn to the fact that such schools provide a full range of practical subjects which by their very nature require a more favourable pupil-teacher ratio; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Pupil-Teacher Ratio.
19.
I do not accept that any changes in the pupil-teacher ratio at post-primary level will lead to the dire consequences which the Deputy appears to envisage.