Vol. 505 No. 3
278 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will agree to reduce the pupil-teacher ratio for the appointment and retention of teachers in view of the fact that the number of students at second level schools is due to decrease leaving many schools over quota; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13653/99]
The pupil-teacher ratio at second level has improved due to the allocation of additional ex-quota and concessionary posts and the application of a reduced ratio in respect of a range of new programmes which have been introduced in second level schools. The Deputy will also be aware of my recent significant initiative which introduced a retention ratio of 18:1 in relation to schools with over quota full-time teachers who might otherwise be redeployed. This coupled with the provision of a remedial entitlement to all second level schools and the extension of the home school liaison scheme will have a considerable and sustained impact on the pupil-teacher ratio at second level.
These moves clearly indicate the importance this Government attributes to education, and demonstrate its commitment to seriously addressing the issue of teaching resources available in our schools.
