There are currently almost 2,000 English language resource teachers working in our primary and post primary schools at an annual cost of some €120 million. This has risen from 262 teachers in 2001/2002.
The arrangements for enhanced provision of English language resource teachers were set out in a circular from my Department which issued to schools in May 2007.
The previous restriction of two such teachers per school was removed and a two year limit of English language classes for the students was also lifted, where a specific request is made.
In fact, a school with more than 121 pupils with English language needs can now have 6 English language resource teachers.