Breeda Moynihan-Cronin
Ceist:566 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education if he will apply the same retention figures to Gaeltacht schools as apply to Gaelscoileanna; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14410/97]
Written Answers - Pupil-Teacher Ratio.
Traditionally, Gaelscoileanna have enjoyed a lower pupil-teacher ratio because of their significant role in strengthening the position of Irish in the education system in areas where Irish is not the spoken language. Successive Governments have operated this policy over a number of years, and I am satisfied that this favourable treatment is warranted. It is particularly important in the European context that we promote our unique identity by fostering and developing our language and culture throughout the country.
I am committed to reducing the pupil-teacher ratio in all primary schools, including schools located in the Gaeltacht. However, unfortunately resources currently available do not permit me to apply the same staffing schedule to Gaeltacht primary schools as applies to Gaelscoileanna.