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

I am somewhat concerned because we were under the impression, although I do not know where that impression came from, that the working group would report back as quickly as possible. Everyone in the House thought the group would come back with recommendations. We have subsequently found out that is not the case and that it will report in early spring 2014.

In response to a parliamentary question tabled by Deputy Kyne, the Minister said it would probably take another 12 months for it to be implemented. I am concerned because when the Minister announced the 500 additional resource teaching posts last year he said it was a one-off and that there would be budgetary implications as a result.

The Minister has also stated that the current model is not sustainable, is flawed and needs to be changed. We know the current model is unsustainable and flawed, as well as being weighted more in favour of schools that can afford to get tests done privately, so there is an urgent need to have the recommendations implemented as quickly as possible. At this stage, however, we are probably looking at the 2015 academic year.

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