Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 3 Dec 1996

Vol. 472 No. 3

Written Answers. - Teacher Appointments.

Mary Harney

Question:

198 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Education if she intends to improve the pupil-teacher ratio in County Dublin vocational education committee colleges in view of the fact that the current staffing levels are having a detrimental effect on many pupils; the plans, if any, she has to allocate a resource teacher and home/school liaison officer to a County Dublin vocational education committee college (details supplied) in Dublin 6W; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23277/96]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

In addition to the normal staffing allocation for the 1996-97 school year, County Dublin vocational education committee was granted an additional allocation to cater for increased enrolments and to deal with curricular difficulties. I have no plans to further increase the staffing allocation for the 1996-97 school year.

An application for the allocation of a resource post to the school in question for the 1996-97 school year was considered by my Department. However, it was decided that such a post is not warranted at present.

There are no plans at present to extend the home school community liaison scheme. However, the position of this school will be considered in the event of any future extension of the scheme.