Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 463: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of language support teachers estimated to be working in schools; if he will provide a breakdown of this number by primary and post-primary sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41372/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

There are 1,535 whole time equivalent English language support teaching posts allocated in the current school year. 1,173 posts are allocated to the primary sector and 362 posts to the post-primary sector. The level of extra teaching support provided in respect of language support to any school is determined by the numbers of eligible pupils enrolled and the associated assessed levels of these pupils' language proficiency. Under present arrangements which are set out in Department Circular 0015/2009 a school can be allocated up to 4 language support teachers. Additional support is also available for those schools which have at least 25% of their total enrolment made up of pupils that require language support. Such applications for additional language support are dealt with through the Staffing Appeals process.