Vol. 467 No. 1
243 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education her views on the need for schools to have a back-up of secretarial support, particularly in schools with high numbers of pupils enrolled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12804/96]
244 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education her views on the need to employ a caretaker in schools, in particular a school with a medium to high numbers of enrolled pupils and with grounds/land that may require continued care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12805/96]
I intend taking Questions Nos. 243 and 244 together. Under the terms of the Programme for Economic and Social Progress a phased programme of assistance by way of a supplementary capitation grant for the provision of caretaking and clerical services in schools was introduced from 1 September 1992. At present all secondary schools with 200 or more pupils and primary schools with 250 or more pupils are receiving financial assistance from my Department towards the cost of clerical services. In the case of vocational schools and colleges, caretaking and clerical staff are allocated to vocational education committees on a scheme wide basis. It is a matter for the vocational education committee to deploy staff as it sees fit. In the case of the community and comprehensive school sector, all schools have been provided with clerical and caretaking services.
