Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Dec 1997

Vol. 485 No. 3

Written Answers. - Teacher Appointments.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

259 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a cluster group of five schools (details supplied) in County Donegal have no remedial educational facilities; and if his Department will appoint at least one remedial teacher in order that services can be available to the schools. [23275/97]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I am aware that an application for a remedial service has been made to my Department in respect of the cluster of schools to which the Deputy refers.

In March 1997, the outgoing Minister for Education agreed staffing arrangements for primary schools for the 1997-98 school year with the Irish National Teachers' Organisation.

These agreed arrangements were based on the allocation of surplus posts available for redistribution from the demographic dividend for the 1997-98 school year and included the allocation of 51 remedial teacher posts to primary schools with effect from September 1997. These posts were allocated on the basis of priority of need for remedial tuition.

I am at present reviewing provision across the special needs area, including current responses to medical needs, to ensure that all available resources are deployed as effectively as possible.

I can assure the Deputy that the needs of the schools to which he refers will be fully considered in the context of any additional allocation of special supports which may be undertaken.