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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 3 Jun 1980

Vol. 321 No. 9

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Teacher/Pupil Ratio.

18.

asked the Minister for Education his proposals for the substantial reduction of the teacher-pupil ratio in inner city schools as recommended in the Inter-Departmental Committee on Dublin Inner City.

The regulations governing the pupil-teacher ratio in national schools are reviewed annually. The circumstances of the schools in the Dublin inner city area are given special consideration in connection with such review. I am not yet in a position to announce the arrangements which may apply in the school year 1980-81 in connection with which all relevant considerations will be taken into account.

When will the Minister be in a position to implement the recommendations of the inter-departmental committee on inner city development? When will he be in a position to make the necessary changes in the pupil-teacher ratio?

There were two committees, as the Deputy knows. The most recent one made available money for the inner city area and I hope we will be able to take advantage of that.

It was not a question of the actual money available. The inter-departmental report listed many areas, and this was one of them, where a strong recommendation was made in favour of reducing the teacher-pupil ratio in inner city schools. Would the Minister opt for having two or three of these schools as pilot schemes?

I had discussions with the Deputy and a deputation from the area. The actual pupil-teacher ratio is low, as the Deputy is aware. What we are looking at is how else to improve the situation within the area.

Would the Minister be able to indicate at an early date when he will come back on this?

Availability of teachers is important.

Is that the only problem?

It is the only one that occurs to me now.

In other words, if we have teachers available there should be no problem?

We have them but it is the deployment of them that causes delay.

In view of the recommendations, does the Minister not consider that it is an area that should not be deprived?

They will get first consideration.

First priority?

The Minister stated that the inner city schools were reviewed every year and that special provisions had been made for them. Would the Minister indicate the nature of the special provisions?

The pupil-teacher ratio averages 27, which is a very favourable one. Even if the numbers do not warrant it, wherever a remedial teacher can be allocated I will make an effort to allocate one.

Would I be correct in saying that the national average is 28 pupils and that 27 for the inner city is hardly a magnificent achievement particularly in view of the difficulties?

The Deputy would not be right in saying that the national average is 28.

What is the national average?

I think it is 32. I am not sure, but I will find out for the Deputy.

The Minister is doubtful that it is 32 but he is definite it is not 28?

I am definite it is not 28.

But the Minister is doubtful that it is 32?

Could the Minister give me the average?

In the most recent question I answered I think it was 32. I will write to the Deputy and give him the accurate figures if he wishes.

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