Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 October 2015
635. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she will protect primary education in the October 2015 budget, particularly in regard to smaller class sizes, which is such a benefit to young children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34098/15]
View answerThe Government's approach to restoring the economy has helped Ireland to return to a position where we are seeing economic growth.
I have already indicated that I am determined that education should be prioritised for investment as our economy recovers and I will be seeking to agree a set of priorities for such increased investment into the future. In the last Budget, I was able to secure the first increase in education spending in recent years. I am very aware that we need to invest more in our youngest children, and in supporting parents to make the choices that are right for them. Our schools need more staffing, better funding, and functioning middle-management structures and I am determined that we will build on what we achieved last year.
The challenge for all schools is to ensure that they utilise their allocated resources to best effect to maximise teaching and learning outcomes.
