Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 26 Mar 1998

Vol. 489 No. 2

Written Answers. - Teacher Appointments.

Noel Ahern

Ceist:

153 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will clarify the situation in relation to the retention of a teacher at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11; the reason this school does not have disadvantaged status in view of the fact three other primary and secondary schools in the same parish have disadvantaged status; when an application for this was last made; the reason for the apparent inconsistency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7779/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

No decisions have yet been made regarding staffing allocations to primary schools for the 1998-99 school year. The disadvantaged areas scheme was last expanded in 1994 when an additional 54 schools were included for capitation purposes only. Three schools from the Ballygall area were granted disadvantaged area status at that time. However, I understand the school to which the Deputy refers did not apply for inclusion in the scheme on that occasion.

I am reviewing my Department's overall response to the problem of educational disadvantage. My objective is to ensure all available resources are properly targeted so that children who are educationally disadvantaged receive the support necessary to enable them to maximise their potential in the education system. The needs of the school to which he refers will be fully considered in the context of any additional resource allocations which may be undertaken to address educational disadvantage.