Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I fully recognise that PTR has not changed, but class sizes are on the increase, which I am sure the Minister recognises. When he took up office, the average class size was 24.3 pupils, but the latest figures show that it is now 24.7 pupils. I take from his response that whatever decision is made next week will not affect DEIS schools.

I am not looking for an answer on whether the Minister plans to increase PTR. I want to know whether any analysis has been done on the impact any proposed increases may have. Whether that is done for this or the next budget, we must have that analysis because without it we will continually be forced to make decisions based on budgetary decisions while not having the information on how that will impact longer term and whether it will put more pressure on finances. Until we move to a budget-proofing process, that system will continue.

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