Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

First, I am glad to tell the Deputy that as and from 1 September this year, the pupil-teacher ratio has been reduced in our primary schools. That measure was included in last year's budget and will, of course, have a carry-over cost into 2017 when the bulk of the year will be funded by the 2017 budget. There is also a review of the position of small schools under way. Like others, I cannot give the Deputy an indication at this stage what will be included in the budget. However, I am aware that there is much commitment to see improvements in the pupil-teacher ratio. Indeed, it was included in the confidence and supply agreement and in the programme for Government. Therefore, there is an interest in this area but, of course, those programmes are in place for the duration of the Government. I cannot therefore give an indication in respect of any particular budget.

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