163. Deputy Ann Graves asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reasons for the reduction in staffing for 2026-2027 for a school (details supplied); whether local population growth trajectories were considered; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this decision will result in the loss of a mainstream teacher and require the reorganisation of pupils into mixed-grade classes; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the current Programme for Government aims for a 19:1 student-teacher ratio with the proposed increase representing a significant move in the opposite direction; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49944/26]

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 operates in a clear and transparent manner and treats all similar types of schools equally.

The staffing arrangements for the 2026/27 school year are set out in Circular 0025/2026. That circular contains information and application forms on the staffing appeals process, where schools may appeal their staffing allocation to the Primary Staffing Appeals Board. The appeal submitted by the school was unsuccessful. The Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.

Within the staffing arrangements (Circular 0025/2026), there are options available to schools to apply for additional staffing including instances whereby schools experience rapid increases in enrolment. These schools can apply for additional mainstream posts, using the projected enrolment criteria as outlined in the staffing circular.

Class sizes in schools are affected by a variety of factors including enrolment fluctuations and accommodation available.

Schools are best placed to determine the appropriate numbers in any class and so the configuration of classes and the deployment of classroom teachers are done at local school level.

The Department's guidance to schools is that the number of pupils in any class is kept as low as possible taking all relevant contextual factors into account. School authorities should also, where possible, use their autonomy under the staffing schedule to implement smaller class sizes for junior classes.