Government must not renege on commitment to reduce class sizes, says Cummins

Social Democrats TD Jen Cummins has accused the government of going back on promises to reduce class sizes.

Media reports over Easter weekend noted that The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has warned the Department of Education not to proceed with a reduction in class sizes because over economic concerns.

Despite this, it has become international best practice to reduce classroom sizes as it results in more efficent and a more specialised education system.

Cummins has said, “when huge numbers of schools are struggling to keep the lights on, it is clear that the education budget is too low.

“At a time when our schools are still grappling with challenges around inclusion, accessibility and infrastructure, the prospect of backtracking on the commitment to reduce class sizes is unacceptable.”

“I will be engaging directly with teachers and school leaders at education conferences this week who are on the frontline faced with increasingly difficult circumstances,” she said.

The Dublin South Central TD, who serves as the party spokesperson on education, said “the fact that the Department of Public Expenditure and the Department of Education appear to be at odds is not just a bureaucratic issue – it has very real consequences for students, families, and school communities.”

“This departmental infighting risks a delay in urgently-needed progress in inclusive education, school transport reform, and the long-promised reduction in class sizes.

“We cannot allow fiscal wrangling to derail the fundamental right of every child to a quality education in a well-supported environment.

“The government and the two relevant departments must clarify their positions and recommit to delivering on educational priorities already promised.”