Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 22 Apr 1997

Vol. 478 No. 1

Written Answers. - School Staffing.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

159 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the decision taken by the Post-Primary Branch in Athlone to reduce the number of part-time hours allocated to a school (details supplied) in Dublin 12; if she will review the decision as notified by circular letter of 8 April 1997; if she will examine the issues outlined to her in the six points made by the school in appealing the decision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10610/97]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The teacher allocation for a secondary school for a particular school year consists of the posts warranted by the enrolment at the end of the preceding September on the basis of the current pupil teacher ratio, together with approved ex-quota and concessionary posts.

In my Department's letter of 8 April 1997 the authorities of the school to which the Deputy refers were notified of the teacher allocation for the 1997-8 school year. I should point out that the allocation includes one ex-quota resource post and two disadvantaged area posts together with approved part-time allocations in respect of guidance and the leaving certificate vocational programme.

The application for an increase in the allocation which has been submitted by the school authorities will be considered in the normal way and the school authorities will be advised of the decision as soon as possible.

I will notify the Deputy of the position in due course.