The UK Government is examining all options at its disposal to address the persistent issue of teacher shortages, according to Norma Foley, the Minister for Education. Foley emphasised that every possible solution is being considered, but highlighted the record high of 74,000 teachers within the system. This announcement was made to the press on Wednesday, following a warning from the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO). INTO stated that with schools reopening nationwide this week, a serious crisis is looming, threatening the future of primary and special education.
According to INTO, the lack of teachers, particularly severe in the Greater Dublin Area, has reached alarming levels, leading to many schools unable to provide their students with necessary staff. The organisation stressed the need for immediate action to prevent further disruption to the education sector and urged the government to hold an emergency meeting with stakeholders to find solutions.
In her response, Foley acknowledged the difficulties currently being faced by school principals and management boards. She noted that the government is continually communicating with all relevant educational parties. The Fianna Fáil TD mentioned several initiatives already launched and added, “we will introduce more”. Foley pointed out the incentives such as a €2,000 bursary for completing a Masters in Education, an expansion by 20% in places for teacher training, as well as complimentary courses for upskilling in challenging subject areas.
She affirmed, “We’re examining all accessible options, and as things progress, we will consider more.” Foley added, “I’m open to scrutinising every suggestion on the table, but we need to remember that having 74,000 teachers is a historic high.”
When questioned about the potentiality of teachers in Dublin or the city receiving an allowance, government official Ms Foley expressed a considerable awareness of the varying geographic demands across all sectors. In swift response to the situation, steps to introduce cost of living allowances are underway, including rental cuts—an initiative Ms Foley is confident will be further explored by the government with the potential inclusion in the Budget.
The representative from Kerry, however, emphasised that should the allowances become a reality, it would be necessary to implement the same in other sectors including healthcare and retail, ensuring equitable treatment.
She continued to state that a significant amount of preparatory work would be required before the introduction of such a scheme.