Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

Although it is included in the science strategy as a matter that should be considered, it is not my intention as a current priority to introduce lab assistants because of the cost and the knock-on effect. We estimate that €24 million is the cost of laboratory assistants this year. There is nothing surer than that all other practical subjects would also seek an assistant, which could come in at up to €120 million per year. It is not a priority for me or Government.

It would not work on a cluster basis and could not because all schools are in school on the same days for the same hours.

See this speech in context