Mary Coughlan
Ceist:51 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for Education her views on the current male and female numerical imbalance in the primary teaching profession; and the way in which she intends to address this imbalance. [16089/95]
Written Answers. - Primary Teachers.
The current male-female numerical imbalance in the primary teaching profession is a manner of concern to me. I am particularly concerned that the lack of a male role model in the classroom may have a detrimental effect on pupils at this elementary stage.
My Department has been considering this issue for some time with a view to determining the best way to address the male-female imbalance. A Department official, with responsibility for equality issues in primary education, is currently engaged on an analysis of the matter. In addition, my Department's research and development committee is being asked to investigate the possibility of having a detailed study carried out to establish the underlying reasons for the downward trend in the number of males entering teacher training college.