Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:47 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of one teacher primary schools in the country; and the proposals, if any, there are for their future. [3549/98]
Written Answers. - One Teacher Schools.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:58 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers which would be needed to ensure that all primary schools have at least two teachers; the plans, if any, he has to achieve that objective; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3654/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 58 together.
There are currently 112 one teacher schools. In March 1997, the then Minister for Education agreed staffing arrangements for primary schools for the current school year with the Irish National Teachers' Organisation. These agreed arrangements were based on the allocation of all surplus posts available for redistribution from the demographic dividend.
The Deputies will be aware that An Action Programme for the Millennium contains a commitment to give primary education a clear priority in allocating resources. In this context, the programme specifically states that one teacher schools with ten or more pupils will receive a second teacher.
Since there are no teaching posts available to me for allocation to these schools, I am currenlty examining a range of options with a view to identifying the most appropriate way to fulfil the Government's commitments to one teacher schools. I assure the Deputies that, over the course of my term of office, I will demonstrate an unequalled commitment to supporting and developing small rural schools.