John Browne
Question:131 Mr. Browne (Wexford) asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will be appointing a second teacher to St. Mary's national school, Tagart, County Wexford. [14096/99]
Written Answers. - School Staffing.
The staffing of primary schools is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. This is in accordance with guidelines agreed between this Department and the education partners.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that I have introduced a new staffing schedule which will result in substantial improvements in teacher staffing levels in the 1999-2000 school year. The reduction in the appointment figure for a second teacher to 14 pupils means that St. Mary's national school qualifies for the appointment of a second teacher with effect from 1 September 1999.
Olivia Mitchell
Question:132 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if a full-time remedial teacher will be sanctioned for Mount Anville primary school which is in need of these services to cater for children with special education needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14097/99]
My priority at present is to ensure that all schools currently without a remedial service will be given access to this service from September next. Arrangements to put this extension of service in place are currently being made in my Department.
I can assure the Deputy that the needs of the school in question will be fully considered in the event of additional resources becoming available to improve existing remedial services.