Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 21 Jun 2001

Vol. 538 No. 5

Written Answers. - School Staffing.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

160 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reconsider his decision not to grant a second teacher for Clydagh national school, Headford, County Galway; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the figures show that there will be an increase in pupil numbers over the next few years in this catchment area; and if his attention has further been drawn to the importance of the school in a small local community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18398/01]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

The staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. The actual number of mainstream posts sanctioned is determined by reference to a staff ing schedule and is finalised for a particular year following discussions with the education partners.

The enrolment at Clydagh national school has decreased from 14 pupils on 30 September 1999 to ten pupils on 30 September 2000. This latter enrolment will entitle the school to a staffing of a principal only for the 2001-02 school year. The school has the services of a shared learning support teacher and a shared resource teacher which they will retain for the 2001-02 school year.