Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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63. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if consideration will be given to reinstating an EAL teacher based in a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow owing to the specific circumstances in this school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48612/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The criteria used for the allocation of teachers to schools is published annually on the Department's website. The key factor for determining the level of staffing resources provided at individual school level is the staffing schedule for the relevant school year and pupil enrolments on the previous 30 September. The staffing arrangements for the current school year 2013/14 are set out in Circular 0013/2013 which is available on the website.The staffing appeal process at primary level includes the provision whereby schools with a high concentration of pupils requiring English as an additional language (EAL) can apply for further additional temporary language support posts. The appeal criteria are also set out in Circular 0013/2013.

The school referred to by the Deputy was granted an EAL post on a provisional basis through the appeal process, pending confirmation of enrolments on 30th September 2013. The school did not reach the required enrolment to retain the post.

The Appeal Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.