Vol. 497 No. 1
119 Mr. Farrelly asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide extra funding to reduce the pupil-teacher ratio at St. Joseph's secondary school, Athboy, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24299/98]
120 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, he has for reducing teacher-pupil ratios in secondary schools; the ratio which he considers appropriate for the educational needs of children; and if he will make a statement on the matter with particular reference to St. Mary's secondary school, Glasnevin, Dublin 11. [24301/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 119 and 120 together.
School authorities may apply for an increase in the approved teacher allocation to cater for particular circumstances. Applications of this nature are considered under the curricular appeal process and each case is considered on its merits.
As the Deputies will appreciate additional resources must be considered in light of overall fiscal policy.
