asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there may be major implications for insurance regarding overcrowded classrooms; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Class Sizes.
256.
I am not so aware.
In the case of national schools, I indicated to school authorities in Circular 24/87 that I was establishing a primary quota review committee who would examine the staffing situation in certain national schools where the implementation of Circular 20/87 would create unacceptably large classes. Among the guidelines for the operation of this committee is that class sizes must be appropriate to the actual size of the classroom.
The rules for national schools require that overcrowding be prevented through restricting enrolments to the limit of the accommodation available.
In the case of vocational schools insurance is a matter for each vocational education committee.
With regard to community and comprehensive schools the State provides a general indemnity to the authorities of these schools in lieu of their taking out insurance cover against liabilities which may arise.