asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the need for the reappointment of an extra teacher at St. Michael's primary school, Athy, County Kildare; to the existence in this school of classes much larger than the national average in terms of pupil-teacher ratio; if the reappointment of an extra teacher is fundamental to the development and efficiency of the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - County Kildare Schools.
337.
The staffing of national schools is determined by the enrolment in the schools on 30 September of the previous year. This is in accordance with the agreement reached between the Government and the INTO under the Programme for National Recovery. In the case of Scoil Mhichil Naofa there were 631 pupils enrolled on 30 September 1988 which warrants a staff of principal plus 18 assistants for the 1989-90 school year. The school also has the services of two remedial teachers, one special assistant and one special assistant for itinerant classes.
The enrolment and staffing position in Scoil Mhichil Naofa, Athy, has been examined recently and the pupil-teacher ratio in the school is comparable with many national schools. My Department are satisfied that the guidelines on maximum class sizes have not been breached.
The appointment of a nineteenth assistant is not warranted under the agreed staffing arrangements.
338.
asked the Minister for Education if she will outline her intentions regarding the provision of primary school facilities at Churchtown, Athy, County Kildare; whether she will provide a new school at this location; if she will proceed with this proposal in the current year or at some stage in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
I have agreed to the erection of a new three classroom school with ancillaries at Churchtown, County Kildare.
The Department's architects have been asked to prepare a sketch scheme so that the project can progress through the various stages.