Union urges Quinn to reverse school cuts

A LEADING teachers’ union has urged Education Minister Ruairi Quinn to reverse cutbacks for some of the most disadvantaged schools in the country after he announced a full review of the issue.

During a two-day Dáil debate on education cutbacks, Mr Quinn confirmed he is considering a re-think on controversial plans to reduce funding for the Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS) scheme.

The review, which will be published in four weeks, will focus on whether savings can be made in other areas without removing services and if these schools — which receive extra educational and social support — can cope with a reduction in posts.