Vol. 509 No. 6
646 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the huge increase in numbers attending Dalystown national school, Mullingar, County Westmeath, which indicates the necessity for extra accommodation, for example, a third classroom, and for the immediate appointment of a third teacher; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21839/99]
Earlier this year the school authorities at Dalystown national school applied for an up-grading of the existing school premises to allow for the replacement of sub-standard classrooms and the provision of ancillary accommodation to facilitate the appointment of a remedial teacher.
Following examination of the case, the school authorities were offered a new general purpose size classroom and ancillary accommodation appropriate to a two-teacher school. This offer was accepted and planning permission is currently being sought for this development. However, my Department was recently informed that the number of pupils at the school had increased and that an additional classroom might be required. This matter is currently under consideration in consultation with the local inspector.
With regard to the appointment of an additional teacher at the school, the staffing of primary schools is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on the 30 September of the previous school year. This is in accordance with guidelines agreed between this Department and the education partners.
