Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 May 2018
261. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Education and Skills if, when viewing the application by a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary for an extra teacher, cognisance will be taken of the fact that the school has an ASD unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23606/18]
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 operates in a clear and transparent manner and treats all similar types of schools equally irrespective of location.
The staffing schedule also includes an appeals mechanism for schools to submit a staffing appeal under certain criteria to an independent Appeals Board.
The school referred to by the Deputy submitted an application for consideration by the Appeals Board at its May 2018 meeting under the Small Schools criteria. The appeal was provisionally approved by the Appeals Board pending confirmation of the actual enrolments in September 2018.
The school has been notified of the outcome of the appeal. The Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.
