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Students from Trinity Comprehensive School in Ballymun as they sit their Junior Cert Exams. Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland
The Daily PollPoll: Do you agree with the proposals for education reform?
The government needs to reduce annual spending of €9 billion on education – how do you think the savings should be achieved?
CHILDREN WILL NOT begin schooling until five years of age and transition year will be abandoned, under new cost-saving proposals being considered by the government in an attempt to reduce its €9 billion annual spending on education.
Raising the school age would result in approximately 40,000 fewer children entering the schooling system this year, while abolishing transition year could ultimately save an estimated €84 million, according to the proposals.
Another scheme being discussed is the introduction of flat-rate fees of €3,000 to replace college registration fees. A grant system would be open to students who are less well-off.
Do you agree with the proposals to reduce spending on education – and, if so, which one do you agree with most strongly?
Poll Results:
None of the above (509)
Transition year should be abolished (358)
The school age should be raised (319)
All of the above (316)
Flat-rate fees should be introduced (170)
have your say