Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2004
337 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of students who qualified for primary teaching in 2004 and who have failed to obtain employment; her plans to reduce class sizes and make proper use of these young well trained teachers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27878/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is not aware of the number of primary teachers who qualified in 2004 who have failed to obtain employment. Significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio at primary level in recent years. The ratio has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 17.44:1 in the 2003-04 school year. Arising from these improvements, class sizes have reduced in the same period. I am committed to reducing class sizes still further. However, this can only be done on a phased basis having regard to available resources and subject to spending priorities within the education sector. Priority will be given to pupils with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas and junior classes.
