Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 June 2004
213 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science his efforts to date to bring about a reduction in the pupil-teacher ratio with particular reference to densely populated urban settlements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19794/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe pupil-teacher ratio at primary and second levels has improved significantly in recent years. At primary level the ratio has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 18.0:1 in the 2002-03 school year while at second level the ratio has fallen from 16.0:1 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.
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.
