The pupil-teacher ratio currently stands at 23:1. The programme for Government contains a commitment to reduce it to 19:1, which would be more in line with EU averages. We all know the importance of having a low ratio. With the multiplicity of needs that teachers now face in the classroom, having a lower ratio leads to a better learning environment, more individual engagement with pupils and better outcomes overall. Unfortunately, I am aware of a school in my constituency where two senior infants classes will have to merge, increasing the overall class number to 33, which I think we can all agree is not acceptable. I urge the Minister to convey to her colleagues in Cabinet the urgent need to reduce the pupil-teacher ratio. It is something we have to do and we need to press ahead with the commitment in the programme for Government.

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