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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 16 Dec 2003

Vol. 577 No. 3

Written Answers. - Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

352 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which he proposes to improve pupil-teacher ratios with particular reference to areas of social or economic deprivation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31358/03]

The pupil teacher ratios at both primary and second level have improved significantly in recent years. At primary level the ratio has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996 to 1997 school year to 18:1 in the 2002 to 2003 school year while at second level the ratio has fallen from 16:1 to 13.6:1 in the same period. The projected ratio at primary level for this school year is 17.35:1 and at post-primary level the projected ratio is 13.48:1. A number of programmes operate at both primary and post-primary level that are designed to tackle educational disadvantage and the problem of early school leaving. These include the allocation of concessionary teaching posts, the operation of reduced pupil-teacher ratios in certain schools, the allocation of home-school liaison teachers, resource teachers, support teachers and financial assistance to schools.

In line with Government policy, my Department will continue to provide further reductions in the pupil-teacher ratio within available resources and subject to spending priorities within the education sector. Priority will be given to pupils with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas.

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