Micheál Martin (Cork South-Central, Fianna Fail)

I would need the full background details. The ratio could be high in some classes but not in the entirety of the school in terms of how it organises its numbers. The Deputy indicated the numbers are declining in both schools. A question arises as to whether that is a permanent feature of the area. There are different approaches one can make to the Department in respect of whether it is possible to do something. If the numbers are going to increase again into the future, it might be possible to get a temporary stay in terms of teaching numbers. I will follow the matter up with the Minister.

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