Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú) | Oireachtas source

It sounds like a small thing to reduce a class size by two or even just by one, but it is something that will make a significant difference to children in the State. Primary schools are significantly neglected in funding when compared to secondary schools. Primary schools receive a capitation grant and, when that is calculated, it translates to approximately €1 per child per day to cover the costs associated with running the school. Secondary schools get almost double the funding. I would love if the Minister could explain to teachers and staff of primary schools around the country why that is.

Figures from the OECD reveal that Ireland is spending 12% less per pupil in primary school than other developed countries. Obviously, with inflation and everything else, schools are struggling to meet the costs of electricity etc. and many schools are relying on fundraising to keep their school above water. The key issue is why there is a disparity between pupils in primary and secondary schools. Why are we 12% less than many OECD countries?

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