Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

I understand the Deputy's concerns. However, within reason all sections of the education budget had to take some portion of the overall burden of budget adjustment. There was a favourable pupil-teacher ratio for gaelscoileanna compared with other schools. I have removed that favourable ratio. As Deputy Crowe is aware, this has in no way indicated a decline in the demand for participation in gaelscoileanna. As part of the allocation of patronage for new schools, gaelscoileanna and gaelcoláistí have been well looked after. There is a clear indication of trying to meet the demand within existing resources while, at the same time, making overall savings.

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