Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 522: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she will re-examine the loss of a teacher at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30086/05]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. This is in accordance with guidelines agreed between my Department and the education partners. The staffing schedule is outlined in a circular which is issued annually to all primary schools.

In the current school year the staffing of the school referred to by the Deputy comprises a principal and 11 mainstream class teaching posts. This is based on an enrolment of 311 pupils at 30 September 2004. The school also has two permanent learning support-resource teaching posts and one temporary learning support-resource teaching post.

To ensure openness and transparency in the system an independent appeals board is now in place to decide on any appeals. The criteria under which an appeal can be made are set out in Department Primary Circular 19/02. The staffing of the school for the 2005-06 school year was considered by the appeals board on 21 July 2005. The appeals board did not uphold the appeal and the board of management was notified accordingly. I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in the operation of the independent appeals board.