Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 19 Apr 1994

Vol. 441 No. 5

Written Answers. - Abbeyknockmoy (Galway) School.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

203 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education if she intends to provide an extra teacher for Newtown girls' national school, Abbeyknockmoy, Tuam, County Galway; her views on the need for such a development in view of the fact that there are now 107 children on the roll; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that an additional classroom can be provided at very little cost to accommodate such a teacher in the nearby community hall; and the plans, if any, she has to upgrade the school, which is in need of modernisation.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The staffing of national schools for a particular year is determined by the enrolment in the school on 30 September of the previous year. The enrolment in Newtown girls' national school on 30 September 1993 was 91 pupils which warrants a staffing of a principal and two assistants for the 1994-95 school year which represents no change from the existing staffing arrangements at the school.

In the light of the school's projected enrolment of 107 pupils for September 1994 an inspector from my Department has been asked to visit the school and to submit a report on the exact position which pertains at the school. On receipt of the inspector's report, the entire matter will be considered further.

My Department has received no application to upgrade or modernise facilities at this school. The chairperson is invited to bring to the attention of my Department any improvement works which he considers necessary and the matter will be considered and a decision conveyed in due course.