Since 1999 the learning support – remedial – teacher service has been extended to all first and second level schools in the country with a pupil teacher ratio of 10:1 or more, including schools in County Kildare.
At present, a total of 56 learning support teachers are in place in primary schools in the county and a further 21.5 whole time equivalent learning support teacher posts are in place in second level schools.
I understand my Department has eight applications on hands seeking increased learning support services for schools in County Kildare.
I assure the Deputy that the needs of the schools in question will be fully considered in the event of additional learning support teacher posts becoming available for allocation.