Michael Ring
Ceist:169 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to increase the number of teachers in a second level school (details supplied) in County Mayo. [20635/98]
Written Answers. - School Staffing.
Dick Spring
Ceist:172 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will sanction the appointment of additional teachers at St. Joseph's secondary school, Castleisland, County Kerry, in order to reduce the pupil teacher ratio. [20667/98]
Dick Spring
Ceist:173 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will sanction the appointment of additional teachers at St. Patrick's secondary school, Castleisland, County Kerry, in order to reduce the pupil teacher ratio. [20668/98]
Dick Spring
Ceist:175 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will sanction the appointment of additional teachers at the Presentation secondary school, Castleisland, County Kerry, in order to reduce the pupil teacher ratio. [20670/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 169, 172, 173 and 175 together.
The pupil teacher ratio is a national system and my Department does not operate different ratios based on regional factors.
School authorities may apply for an increase in the approved allocation to cater for particular circumstances. Applications of this nature are considered under the curricular appeal process and each case is considered on its merits.