Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

The survey published yesterday by the Irish Primary Principals Network has frightening implications for primary education. Some 75% of the 850 principals and deputy principals surveyed indicated a sense of hopelessness. Many also admitted to suffering from stress and exhaustion. It is a serious issue for education at that level when so many principals admit to a feeling of hopelessness.

Serious concern was expressed by those who responded to the survey in regard to the workload endured by principals. Few of them have an official office and only 50% have some secretarial assistance. Respondents indicated increasing bureaucracy and requirements under the new special needs legislation, as particular difficulties. These concerns relate to the dwindling number of teachers applying for the post of principal. This is a serious concern. Will the Leader ask the Minister for Education and Science to take immediate action to alleviate the workload endured by principals and to allay their fears and concerns as indicated in the results of this survey?