I thank the Cathaoirleach for selecting this matter for discussion on the Adjournment and for the fact that he selects a fair share of matters in regard to County Tipperary.
I welcome the Minister of State. My request is a simple but urgent one which requires his Department's careful consideration. My matter refers to the need for a resource teacher to be appointed to four schools which share one complex in Cashel, County Tipperary. The schools are very successful and teachers, parents and students alike can be very proud of their record.
An assessment was carried out approximately 12 months ago in regard to the need for a resource teacher and it was pointed out that 26 pupils were badly in need of this service; the number has risen since then. It was hoped that a resource teacher would be appointed but those hopes did not come to fruition which was a source of great disappointment. An inspector who visited the school recently identified the fact that the need for a resource teacher still exists.
It would relieve a great deal of stress for many people if a resource teacher could be appointed in Cashel. Great hardship is being caused because some people have to travel up to 20 miles to avail of the service. The Minister is aware that the figure of 26 students is way above that required for the appointment of one teacher. I urge him to give this case serious consideration.
