Vol. 511 No. 6
405 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will review the number of teachers in St. Patrick's special school, Kells Road, Kilkenny, to ensure that all classes have a qualified teacher at all times; if a satisfactory number of classroom helpers will be available to enable children to stay in classrooms suitable to their needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25326/99]
The school referred to by the Deputy is a special school for pupils assessed with moderate general learning disabilities. It has five classes for children with moderate general learning disability and two classes for children with severe-profound general learning disability.
The school has an authorised staffing of principal and seven assistant teachers. Two of the teaching staff are on career break and have been replaced by temporary teachers. The positions were advertised and the board of management received only two applications, both of which were from unqualified persons.
My Department has informed the authorities of the school in question that the posts must be re-advertised and that they must make every effort to secure the services of fully qualified teachers.
