Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, says recent reports have highlighted growing concerns over the use of unqualified teachers in schools here, and raise questions about educational standards and student welfare.

New figures obtained by TG4’s 7 LÁ programme showed 13,540 unqualified individuals were employed in primary and post-primary schools during the 2023/2024 school year.

Speaking in response, Teachta O’Rourke said;

“The figures released to 7 LÁ are very significant. They show that 98% of primary schools (3,029) and 65% of post-primary schools (472) relied on unqualified staff in 2023/2024. In total, 8,883 unqualified individuals worked in primary schools, while 4,657 were employed at post-primary level.

“The practice of employing unqualified teachers risks undermining the learning experience for students, particularly in critical subjects such as STEM, languages, and special education.

“Teaching unions and education experts have warned that unqualified teachers – while often well-intentioned – may lack essential training, classroom management skills, and subject expertise. This can lead to inconsistent teaching quality, leaving students at a disadvantage, especially during state exams.

“We cannot compromise on the quality of education for our young people. Every child deserves a fully qualified teacher.

“Minister McEntee must address the recruitment and retention emergency urgently. Sinn Féin has consistently called for increased investment in teacher training programmes, dedicated plans to bring Irish teachers home from abroad, and a plan to tackle the underlying drivers of the emergency – the housing and cost-of-living crisis. In addition, the Minister must come forward with proposals to ensure pay parity in the sector.

“The future of Ireland’s education system depends on ensuring that every classroom is led by a qualified, supported professional. The Minister must respond to the worrying trend highlighted in these new figures.”