Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is nice to meet the trade union representatives. It is my first time meeting the teacher unions. We are here to talk about ensuring schools are open in a manner which is both safe and sustainable. I read through the witnesses' opening statements. Turning first to Mr. Boyle from the INTO, I would like to know a little more about the flu vaccine for teachers, which I support. They are a group that should be considered to get the flu vaccine but it is in short supply at the moment. I ask also about the increase in the pupil capitation fee of €25. Why are 1,000 schools outside the substitute supply panels?

Moving to Mr. Christie, I acknowledge the tribute to the school boards of management. They do an awful lot of work in the background. I was on the board of management for the Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board, GRETB. Much work has been done by principals, school caretakers and bus drivers. Everyone is involved and they are all close contacts. I am very interested to hear just a little bit more on SNAs and PPE.

I have a question on space in primary schools, which was not covered in the opening statements. There will be an extra 1,000 teachers to reduce the pupil-teacher ratio. Where do those teachers and classes go when there is no classroom space?