Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

92. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the allocation of primary school teachers in each county for 2024-25, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10211/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Government is investing a record €11.8 billion into education and schools through Budget 2025. This record level of investment has allowed the Government to invest in tackling educational disadvantage and supporting those with special educational needs to achieve their full potential. It has enabled huge investment in the school buildings programme, in curriculum reform, in school leadership and in continuous professional development for teachers.

The numbers employed in our schools have now reached the highest-ever level. Teacher numbers at primary level have increased by over 5,600 between 2018 and 2024. This has led to a steady improvement in both the pupil : teacher ratio and in average class size statistics during this period. The latest figures in relation to the pupil : teacher ratio show an improved ratio of pupils to teachers, improving from 15 : 1 to 12.8 : 1 at primary level, when comparing the 2019/20 school year to the 2023/24 school year. This compares favourably with the OECD pupil : teacher ratio of 15 : 1.

The information requested by the Deputy is attached.

">Allocation of Primary school Teachers