Vol. 522 No. 3
250 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that despite the increase in the number of pupils attending Scoil Ursula national school, Strandhill Road, County Sligo, his Department has refused to sanction the current complement of teachers for the coming school year in view of the fact that the school is to lose one teacher; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18798/00]
As the Deputy is aware 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 enrolment at Scoil Ursula has decreased from 363 pupils on 30 September 1998 to 346 pupils on 30 September 1999. This latter enrolment entitles the school to a principal and 12 mainstream class teachers for the 2000-01 school year. An enrolment of 360 pupils was required in order to retain the existing staffing levels and I regret, therefore, that the retention of the 13 mainstream class post cannot be sanctioned for the 2000-01 school year.
