Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

It is precisely because of the power of education to make an enormous difference in a child's life and to a child's potential, particularly through investment in the early years of the child's education, that we tabled this motion. We consider education policy to be important not only in terms of the opportunities of individual children but also in developing a more equal and inclusive society. That is the reason we tabled the motion. It is for that reason, too, I find it hugely disappointing that the budget has not continued the progress we made last year in reducing the size of classes in our schools.

Last year, despite the fact that there were far fewer extra resources than are available this year, we were able to reduce the pupil-teacher ratio at both primary and post-primary level. What we have now is a step backwards, and that is deeply concerning. I was genuinely surprised that this was done in the budget. I expected that the progress started last year would continue, until we reach the point where the average class size is no more than 20. It was possible to do that in the lifetime of a normal Government. Unfortunately, however, this year has seen a step backwards. There has been no progress on class size. We all know, as has been said by previous speakers, that class size makes an enormous difference for children. Our class sizes are among the highest in the European Union. For the individual child, whether they be quiet, a child with troubles or a child who does not have the same supports at home as other children, being in a class of over 30 pupils can mean it is impossible for even the best of teachers to give them the individual attention they need. For that reason, I find it amazing that the Fianna Fáil Party did not insist on that being done in its confidence and supply arrangement with the Government.

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