Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
479. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth the estimated cost to reduce the pupil teacher ratio by one point in primary schools, and in post-primary schools, respectively, from September 2027 to December 2027; and the estimated cost for a full year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45542/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt primary level, classroom teachers are allocated to schools at a general average of 1 classroom teacher for every 23 pupils. In DEIS Band 1 schools, teachers are allocated at a lower ratio, at an average of 17:1, 21:1 and 19:1 for junior, senior and vertical schools respectively. Each one point reduction in the staffing schedule at primary level for DEIS and non-DEIS schools requires between 350 and 400 additional teaching posts, at an approximate cost of between €9.3 and €10.7 million in the first year, and €28 to €32 million per annum thereafter. At post-primary level, a reduction in the pupil teacher ratio from 19:1 to 18:1 would create an additional c. 1175 posts at an estimated cost of €32 million in the first year and €96 million per annum thereafter. Salary costings will rise in line with pay agreements.
The estimated one-off capital cost of reducing the pupil teacher ratio by one point at primary level is circa €25 to €35 million, while at post-primary level, it is circa €60 to €75 million. This estimated cost is based on certain assumptions regarding the number of new teaching posts generated and available accommodation capacity.
