Vol. 535 No. 2
263 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the concern among parents in a school (details supplied) in County Waterford that falling pupil numbers may result in the loss of a teacher; and if he will ensure that the prospective numbers are fully taken into account before any decision is taken. [12572/01]
The staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. The number of mainstream posts sanctioned is determined by reference to a staffing schedule and is finalised for a particular year following discussions with the education partners.
The enrolment at the school in question has decreased from 62 pupils on 30 September 1999 to 55 pupils on 30 September 2000. This latter enrolment will entitle the school to a staffing of a principal and two mainstream class teachers for the 2001-02 school year, which is the same staffing as the school currently has.
The school will also retain the services of a shared learning support teacher for the 2001-02 school year.
