Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)

There are two issues. I thank the Deputy for his support as regards the teacher unions and their directives. Teachers and their unions have always stated that they put children first. Obviously, however, these matters affect children within schools.

I have indicated to the House that there is an unevenness in the number of retirements and promotions. I have also indicated that some schools have been badly hit. Difficulties have arisen and are arising. The Deputy will be pleased to hear that I am in discussions with the Minister for Finance on alleviating some of the serious difficulties facing schools. I hope to conclude my consultation with the Minister in the near future and that we will be in a position to improve on some of the difficulties and unevenness in the system.

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