Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 20 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 3

Written Answers. - School Staffing and Refurbishment.

Michael Noonan

Ceist:

543 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has received correspondence from a principal of St. Kieran's boys national school, Galvone, Limerick (details supplied); if he will sanction the additional staff requested in the letter; if immediate repair works will be carried out in view of the poor condition of the building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9646/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

Correspondence has been received in my Department from the Principal of St. Kieran's national school, Galvone, Limerick in relation to the issues raised by the Deputy.

An application has been received for additional staffing to cater for traveller pupils and pupils with special needs. Officials in the special education section of my Department are currently investigating this and a decision is expected in the near future.

Due to the difficulties encountered in this school a special concessionary teacher was allocated to the school for the school year 1998-99. It has now been decided that this concessionary post may be retained in the school for the school year 1999-2000.

With regard to the need for refurbishment works at the school, the Office of the Public Works have undertaken an inspection of the school building and a comprehensive report is expected shortly. When this report has been received and considered, a decision will be conveyed to the school management.