Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 501: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the proposals he has to address the impact of the education cuts proposed in budget 2009 in a primary school (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38226/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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In making the announcement of the Budget measures for education I stressed that tough choices had to be made in meeting the needs of the education sector in difficult economic circumstances. The resources available to the Department have meant that these choices have been very challenging and I acknowledge the impact of funding restrictions in a number of areas, including at school level. However, these are the inevitable result of the more challenging economic environment and the need to prudently manage Exchequer resources.

This Government's continued prioritisation of education over the last 11 years is evidenced from our investment in 2009 of €9.6 billion — over treble what it was in 1997.

The increase of €302m in the Education budget for 2009 is therefore a real achievement in the current economic climate. Education is one of only three Government Departments to have increased funding in 2009.

The Education Budget for 2009 has provided for improvements to the overall level of day to day funding for primary schools which will see funding increase from €167 million in 2008 to almost €190 million in 2009.

Notwithstanding the increase of €302 million in the Education budget for 2009, in making the announcement of the Budget measures for education I stressed that tough choices had to be made in meeting the needs of the education sector in these difficult times. The resources available to the Department have meant that these choices have been very challenging. The decision made to suspend the substitution cover was a difficult one.

The provision of substitute cover for uncertified sick leave and official school business at second level was only introduced in 2003. Prior to 2003 schools managed without any of this provision, a fact I fully accept was possible through flexibility and good will all round.

As we manage through this difficult period I am asking teachers in all schools to co-operate fully with school managers in coping with this change in the interest of the students.