Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 633: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the reason an extra teacher has not been appointed to a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34516/06]

Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Independent)
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Question 665: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if he will approve the application of a school (details supplied) for an extra teacher in view of the overcrowding in classes at the school and the fact that a vacant classroom is available as is ancillary accommodation and equipment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34646/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 633 and 665 together.

The staffing of a primary school for a particular school year is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on the 30th September of the previous school year and by reference to a staffing schedule. This staffing schedule for the 2006/07 school year is outlined in Primary Circular 0023/2006 which was issued to all primary schools. Based on an enrolment of 77 pupils on the 30th September 2005, as submitted by the Board of Management, the staffing for the 2006/2007 school year is a Principal 2 mainstream class teachers.

To ensure openness and transparency in the system an independent Appeal Board is now in place to decide on any staffing appeals. The criteria under which an appeal can be made are set out in Department Primary Circular 0024/2006.

The staffing of the school for the 2006/2007 school year was considered by the Appeal Board on 25th May, 2006. The Board, having considered the appeal with regard to the criteria outlined in Circular 0024/2006, was satisfied that a departure from the staffing schedule is not warranted in this case. The Board of Management of the school was notified in writing of the decision of the Appeal Board on 26th May, 2006.

The Appeal Board operates independently of the Minister and my Department and its decision is final. I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in the operation of the independent Appeal Board.