Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 October 2018
270. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which extra teachers have been deployed at primary and second level throughout County Kildare in line with requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42502/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra271. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which extra teachers have been deployed at primary and second level throughout the country in line with requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42503/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 270 and 271 together.
Teacher allocations to all schools are approved annually by my Department in accordance with established rules based on recognised pupil enrolment. The criteria for the allocation of posts are published on the Department website.
Budget 2018 provided for a one point improvement in the staffing schedule in primary schools which brings the position to the most favourable ever seen at primary level. This measure came into effect in the current school year.
The 2018/19 school year saw an increase of over 6000 teaching posts in our schools compared to the 2015/16 school year.
Budget 2019 marks the third year of a major reinvestment in the education sector, as we continue to implement the Action Plan for Education, our plan to make Ireland’s education and training service the best in Europe by 2026.
Budget 2019 will see numbers employed in our schools reach the highest ever level. Over 1,300 additional posts in schools will be funded, including more than 370 teaching posts to cater for growth in student population and additional special classes.
