Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017
603. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to reduce staffing levels at a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; if a staffing appeal has been received by his Department from authorities at the school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28604/17]
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 April 2017 meeting under the small school criterion. The appeal was provisionally approved by the Appeals Board pending confirmation of the actual enrolments in September 2017. The school has been notified of the outcome of the appeal. The Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.
