Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 July 2020
699. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Education and Skills the estimated number of post-primary teachers expected to retire during the first term of 2020/2021; and if this number has been factored into the recruitment of additional teachers within the roadmap for reopening schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20525/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department administers the relevant pension schemes for teachers and non-teaching staff (NTS) at primary and post-primary level. Over 1,500 retirement applications are made each year under these schemes. In 2019, 1,504 retirement applications were administered and similar numbers are anticipated for 2020. Forecasting retirements in the education sector is complex. The availability of options for teachers to retire on pension covers a very wide age spread from 50 to 70. My Department undertakes significant planning for retirements every year, but it is ultimately a demand-driven service. There are many social, economic and personal factors that influence teachers as to when they retire.
Covid-19 creates a set of unique set of circumstances and challenges to the education sector, including an additional layer of complexity to predicting retirements. On 27 July, ‘Reopening Our Schools: The Roadmap for The Full Return to School’ was launched following intensive engagement with stakeholders from across the education sector. Critical consideration was given to staff allocation, which is reflected in the provision of an additional 1,080 teaching posts at post-primary level, including 120 guidance posts, at a cost of €53 million; additional funding, estimated at €84.7 million, for schools to employ replacement teaching staff, SNAs and administrative staff; and additional funding of €41.2 million to provide primary schools with substitute staff. This will provide more certainty for schools.
With regard to the planned public pay restoration of 2%, my Department will apply the measures, as set out by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, to the retirement applications of all teachers and NTS retiring from 1 October 2020.
