Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 10 Apr 2003

Vol. 565 No. 2

Written Answers. - Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Kathleen Lynch

Ceist:

55 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress of discussions with the Department of Finance regarding the implications for teacher numbers and the pupil-teacher ratio of the decision announced in the budget to reduce public service numbers by 5,000 and to impose a freeze on future recruitment; the number of teaching positions that will be affected by these decisions; the way in which it will affect the promised appointment of extra resource teachers and special needs assistants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10198/03]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Officials of my Department are currently in consultation with the Department of Finance concerning the implications for teacher numbers and the pupil teacher ratio of the decision to reduce public service numbers as announced in the budget.

No final decision has been made on the way in which the implementation of this decision will impact on numbers employed in the education sector. However, I intend to ensure that children with special needs continue to be a priority in the allocation of resources.

Question No. 56 answered with Question No. 35.