Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 September 2025
271. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Education and Youth to review the case of a school (details supplied) to allow for a fourth teacher; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51071/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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 schedule operates in a clear and transparent manner and treats all similar types of schools equally.
The primary school staffing arrangements for the 2025/26 school year are set out in Circular 0011/2025. These arrangements contain an appeals mechanism for schools to submit a staffing appeal under certain criteria to an independent Primary Staffing Appeals Board. The school referred to by the Deputy submitted an appeal to the June meeting of the Appeals Board. The appeal was unsuccessful as the school was not projecting sufficient enrolment to appoint the fourth teacher. The Primary Staffing Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.
