Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017
497. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education and Skills when a decision will issue regarding an additional teaching post appeal in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27264/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe criteria used for the allocation of teaching posts is published annually on the Department website. The key factor for determining the level of staffing resources provided at individual school level is the staffing schedule for the relevant school year and pupil enrolments on the previous 30 September. The staffing schedule also includes an appeals mechanism for schools to submit an appeal under certain criteria to an independent Appeals Board.
The staffing schedule operates in a clear and transparent manner and treats all similar types of schools equally irrespective of location.
The school referred to by the Deputy submitted an application for consideration by the Appeals Board at its June meeting under the alleviating some of the pressure on class sizes at infants level criteria. The appeal was refused by the Appeals Board on the basis that the grounds of the appeal did not warrant the allocation of an additional post for the 2017/18 school year. The school has been notified of the outcome of the appeal. The Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.
