Vol. 568 No. 1
103 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans to improve the pupil-teacher ratio; if he intends to take initiatives in this regard in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15762/03]
159 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the latest available pupil-teacher ratio at secondary level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15808/03]
172 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the latest available pupil-teacher ratio at primary level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15810/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 103, 159, 172 together.
The pupil-teacher ratios at both primary and second levels have improved significantly in recent years. At primary level, the ratio has been reduced from 22.2:1 in 1996-97 to 19:1 in the 2001-02 school year, while at second level the ratio has been reduced from 16:1 to 14:1 in the same period. The projected ratios for primary and second levels for the current school year are 18.4:1 and 13.6:1, respectively. In line with Government policy, my Department will continue to provide targeted improvements in the education sector within the limitations of resource availability.
