Vol. 506 No. 2
398 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will ensure that a teacher will be retained in Ballintleva national school, Curraghboy, County Roscommon, in view of the fact that a reduction in teacher numbers would lead to overcrowding in the current classrooms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14912/99]
The staffing of primary schools is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. This is in accordance with guidelines agreed between this Department and the education partners.
The current staffing of Ballintleva national school is one principal and two mainstream class teachers based on an enrolment of 61 as at 30 September 1977. The enrolment as at 30 September 1998, on which the staffing for the 1999-2000 school year is based, was 52 pupils. Unfortunately, this does not meet the retention requirement for the second teacher in this school.
However, the school has contacted officials in my Department regarding overcrowding of classrooms as a result of the reduction in teacher numbers. An inspector will visit the school shortly, and will submit a report on the current situation. The staffing position in the school will be reviewed at that stage.
Furthermore, arrangements are being made in my Department to ensure that all schools that currently have no remedial service will be given access to this service from September next. All primary schools currently without a service, including Ballintleva national school, will be covered by this expansion of the remedial teaching service.
