Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:252 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science his targets for the improvement of pupil-teacher ratios in primary and second level schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10516/03]
Written Answers. - Pupil-Teacher Ratio.
In recent years the pupil-teacher ratios at both primary and second levels have improved significantly.
At primary level the ratio has fallen from 22.2:1 in 1996-97 to 19.0:1 in the 2001-02 school year while at second level the ratio has fallen from 16.0:1 to 14.0:1 in the same period. The projected ratios for primary and second levels for the current school year are 18.4:1 and 13.6:1 respectively.
In line with Government policy, my Department will continue to strive towards further reductions in the pupil teacher ratio within available resources. Over the period of this Government's term of office we will work towards a target pupil-teacher ratio for junior classes in primary schools of below 20:1. I will also continue to give a priority to special needs pupils and pupils experiencing educational disadvantage.
Question No. 253 answered with Question No. 247.
Question No. 254 answered with Question No. 83.
Question No. 255 answered with Question No. 145.
Question No. 256 answered with Question No. 85.
Question No. 257 answered with Question No. 86.
Question No. 258 answered with Question No. 148.