92. Deputy Micheál Carrigy asked the Minister for Education and Youth whether temporary supports could be given to a school due to a reduction in enrolments and student numbers (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46145/26]

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 schedule is an allocation mechanism that uses enrolment bands to determine the number of classroom teaching posts allocated to a school. The primary staffing schedule plays a central role in supporting sustainability at school level by aligning staffing resources with enrolment patterns in a clear and consistent manner treating all similar types of schools equally, irrespective of location.

Within the staffing arrangements (Circular 0025/2026), there are options available to schools to apply for additional staffing. Schools experiencing rapid increases in enrolment can apply for additional permanent mainstream posts, using projected enrolment. There is also a staffing appeals mechanism for schools to apply to an independent Primary Staffing Appeals Board, under certain published criteria.