I compliment mathematics teachers and acknowledge the new finding that there has been a major improvement in the teaching of mathematics. Ireland has been ranked on a list of high achievers and has come in ahead of Finland, which is one of the highest achievers. Low achievers have actually done very well but the pupils who are high achievers are still in the risk category, which is frightening. This really needs to be highlighted here today.

The trend in the mathematics and science study shows there were major improvements in 2015. Fourth class primary school students ranked ninth out of 49. This is a big leap from 17th place in 2011. Secondary school students ranked ninth of 39 countries. Therefore, great credit is due to the mathematics teachers of our country. This is certainly a matter that needs to be considered further.