Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 10 Jun 2003

Vol. 568 No. 1

Written Answers. - School Staffing.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

105 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress of discussions with the Department of Finance regarding the implications for teacher numbers and the pupil-teacher ratio of the decision announced in the budget to reduce public service numbers by 5,000 and to impose a freeze on future recruitment; the number of teaching positions that will be affected by these decisions; the way in which it will affect the promised appointment of extra resource teachers and special needs assistants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15738/03]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The Government decision regarding the reduction of overall public sector numbers by 5,000 has been the subject of detailed discussions between officials of my Department and officials in the Department of Finance. These discussions are ongoing. When these consultations with all Departments have been completed it is envisaged that the Minister for Finance will bring a proposal to Government regarding the detailed implementation of this reduction across the public sector. In the circumstances I am not in position at this stage to indicate the position in relation to appointments in the education sector.