Class sizes and counselling supports
Deputy Murnane O'Connor relayed INTO concerns about reducing class sizes and responding to increased behavioural and emotional needs after Covid. The Minister said the Education Minister was aware of the issues and would consider them carefully.
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Comment on this
This morning I met with the Irish National Teachers Organisation, INTO. The first issue I wish to raise with the Minister is the need to reduce class sizes by two pupils in budget 2023. The other issue is that the number of pupils at primary level looking for behavioural and emotional intervention has significantly increased due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As a result, referrals to child and adolescent mental health services, CAMHS, and other services have risen by 40%. As such, the INTO is now looking for a national framework to be put in place to inform the development of counselling services for primary school children and the introduction of on-site school counselling in primary schools, in line with international best practice. I will also speak to the Minister, Deputy Foley, about this. I firmly believe funding needs to be put in place for this.
Comment on this
The Minister, Deputy Foley, is aware of this issue. She is aware of the importance of class sizes and the role they play in delivering the kind of education our young girls and boys need. I am sure she will listen very carefully and try to respond to the issue the Deputy raises.