Brendan Kenneally (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Question 607: To ask the Minister for Education and Science when the general allocation classification will be revised in view of the fact that supports given to schools may no longer be in line with the number of students that attend the school as in the case of a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22068/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the general allocation model was introduced in primary schools in September 2005 to ensure that each school has learning support/resource teaching support available to meet the needs of children with high incidence special educational needs including children with mild general learning disabilities. When the model commenced, a commitment was given to carry out a review after three years of operation. This review commenced in 2008. The process involves engaging with the Education Partners which includes parent, management and union interests in the context of securing their views on the model's operation. It is expected that the review will be completed in 2009.

Where schools meet the criteria for Developing School Status as outlined in Department circular 0002/2009, an appropriate adjustment will automatically be made to the school's allocation under the General Allocation Model. Applications for additional resource teaching support under developing school criteria must be submitted to the Primary Teacher Allocations Section by 13 October, 2009. It is open to the school referred to by the Deputy to submit such an application.