Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2023
278. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Education if she will sanction the retention of a third teacher in a school (details supplied), given the unprecedented increase in enrolment numbers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46295/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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.
For the 2023/24 school year, the staffing schedule for primary schools has been improved by one point and schools will be provided with class teachers on the basis of 1 teacher for every 23 pupils which is a historical low ratio.
The staffing process contains an appeals mechanism for schools to submit a staffing appeal under certain criteria to an independent Primary Staffing Appeals Board. The Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.
The appeal submitted by the school referred to by the Deputy has been successful and the school has been notified that a third mainstream teacher may be employed for the remainder of the school year.
