Rory O'Hanlon
Question:209 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Education when she will appoint a remedial teacher to St. Patrick's national school, Oram, Castleblayney, County Monaghan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9715/97]
Written Answers. - Resource Teachers.
Michael P. Kitt
Question:233 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Education when she will sanction a resource and remedial teacher for schools (details supplied) in County Galway. [9856/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 209 and 233 together.
I am not in a position at present to indicate whether additional remedial or resource teachers will be made available to primary schools for the 1997-98 school year.
My capacity to allocate additional remedial and resource teacher posts in any year is determined by resource availability in that year and the level of competing demand from other special needs areas. The position regarding such allocations for the 1997-98 school year is currently being considered.
As Minister for Education, I have to consider how best to deploy available resources across a wide range of special needs, including the remedial and resource areas. I have to establish priorities and seek to allocate available resources to best effect.
I am satisfied that since my appointment as Minister for Education, I have achieved substantial advances across the entire spectrum of special needs, including the remedial and resource teacher areas. It is my intention to continue this process.