asked the Minister for Education if she will outline the effect which the financial cuts for VECs and the changes in the pupil-teacher ratio will have on practical subjects; her views on whether her decision will further disadvantage VEC schools who do not operate a student selection process, and therefore have a high proportion of students requiring teaching assistance; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Financial Cuts for VECs.
154.
I do not envisage that the financial allocations for 1988, notification of which my Department hoped to convey to vocational education committees in the near future, will have adverse effects for any essential school activities since the priority of maintaining essential second-level school services which was set out in the context of 1987 allocations will again be emphasised to the VECs.
Likewise, I am satisfied that the application of the revised arrangements for the staffing of vocational schools will not involve undue difficulties for the school authorities in providing a suitable programme of instruction for their pupils. My Department has acknowledged on an ongoing basis the involvement of vocational schools with disadvantaged pupils in the context of the allocation of remedial and resources teacher posts to that sector. These special additional posts will be maintained in 1988.