Local politicians clash over schools
Up to eight Donegal schools face losing a teacher – claim
Labour councillor Martin Farren, Fianna Fáil TD Charlie McConalogue and Sinn Féin election candidate Albert Doherty have clashed over the future of small schools in the county after it was suggested that up to eight schools in Donegal are on course to lose at least one full teaching post in September.
The projected loss of eight teachers is based on 2012 school enrolments and increases in the pupil-teacher ratio announced in last year’s budget.
Speaking on cutbacks announced last October’s budget Deputy McConalogue, Fianna Fáil’s education spokesman, said: “There is no doubt in my mind that this is all part of an agenda to force the amalgamation of smaller schools across the North West.
“I believe that if Minister Quinn has his way, some Donegal communities will lose their local school entirely.
“There are genuine fears that he is deliberately trying to undermine public confidence in the future of smaller schools.
