Peter Mathews (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 244: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans in respect of postgraduate places in teacher training colleges, to increase intake or to change the means of entry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19810/12]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The post graduate course for primary teaching was introduced as a response to a shortage in the supply of primary teachers. The course has not been incorporated as a permanent feature of primary teacher training. The decision to provide further courses is generally made on an annual basis depending on the teacher supply situation. Intake to the courses was reduced in 2010 to 200 places and has remained at that level for the 2011 and 2012 courses. No decision has been taken in respect of 2013.

The intake into the Colleges of Education in future years will continue to be kept under review by my Department to ensure that there is an adequate supply of teachers