Budget 2027 must deliver smaller classes and 1,000 more teachers – Kenny
Budget 2027 must deliver smaller classes and 1,000 more teachers - Kenny - The Labour Party
- Labour proposes 1,000 additional teachers to reduce the primary staffing ratio by two points to 1:19.
Labour education spokesperson Eoghan Kenny TD has today called on Government to fund smaller primary school classes and employ 1,000 additional teachers in Budget 2027. Following the publication of Labour’s Alternative Budget, Deputy Kenny said children across Ireland need more individual attention and schools need the staff and resources to deliver it.
Deputy Kenny said:
“Children get one chance at their education. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael must stop expecting schools to do more without the staff they required.
“In our Alternative Budget, Labour called for 1,000 additional teachers and to reduce the primary staffing ratio by two points to one teacher for 19 children. That means more time to identify difficulties and give every child the attention they deserve.
“We would also place a second teacher in up to 100 Junior Infant classes in DEIS schools. Investing early gives children a stronger start and helps tackle educational disadvantage before it takes hold.
“Recruiting teachers means little if Government cannot retain them. We need secure jobs and proper recognition for teachers returning from abroad.
“Schools also need buildings and equipment that support learning. Labour would provide an additional €200m for school buildings, libraries and PE halls, alongside a 20% increase in the Minor Works Grant. Principals should not have to stretch outdated grants to cover rising repair costs.
“Budget 2027 must put children’s education first. Government must fund smaller classes, recruit the teachers we need and give schools the resources to deliver. Parents, pupils and teachers need action, not another year of excuses.”