Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 9 Mar 1995

Vol. 450 No. 4

Written Answers. - Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

62 Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Education the figures for an average class size; the pupil teacher ratio at primary levels for each of the years 1980, 1985, 1990 and 1995; the plans, if any, she has to reduce the pupil teacher ratio; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5106/95]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The information requested by the Deputy is as follows:

Pupil-Teacher Ratio

School Year
1980-81	28.3:1
1985-86	26.8:1
1990-91	26.6:1
1995-96	22.9:1 (projected)

Average Class Size

School Year
1980-81	31.9
1985-86	30.3
1990-91	30.3
1993-94	28.1*

* This is the most recent year for which figures are available].

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the posts that were due to be lost at the end of the current school year because of declining enrolments will be retained for the 1995-96 school year. The retention of these posts is expected to reduce the pupil teacher ratio to 22.9:1 in September 1995.